Robert J. Chevako, age 85, of New Woodstock passed away at home on Oct. 18, 2024. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Bob excelled in academics, earning the title of “Rocket Rob” as he was consistently at the top of his class and a frequent winner in science fairs. His lifelong love of music began with playing tuba in his high school marching band, then continued through the 1960’s equally enjoying rock ‘n’ roll and modern classical. Look closely at the documentary “Woodstock” and you might just catch a glimpse of Bob, as he was one of the hundreds of thousands in attendance. After a stellar undergraduate turn at Case Institute of Technology (now Case Western Reserve University) majoring in physics, Robert earned a Master of Science Degree in electrical engineering at Cornell University. After working more than a decade for General Electric, Robert founded Delphi Consultants and spent the rest of his professional career lending his expertise to a variety of engineering pursuits and projects for several high-profile clients including the U.S. military.
It was in the early 1970s that Bob found his true love: Sara Dawson. With their marriage in 1974, Bob and Sara created a loving partnership that would hold fast until the end of their days. With their shared love of history, horses, friends, and family, they became a much loved and respected part of the New Woodstock community.
Throughout his life, Robert maintained a keen interest in collecting European sports cars, antique broadcast and electronic equipment, beer cans and odd little thingamajigs of indeterminant origin and purpose. Bob was an innovative engineer, a passionate car enthusiast, a discerning beer connoisseur, a beloved son, brother, and uncle, a loyal friend, a cherished husband and father and an incredibly proud grandfather.
Bob was predeceased by his parents, James and Helen, and his wife of nearly 50 years, Sara. He leaves his brother and sister-in-law, Ronald and Anne; stepson Michael Dawson (Laura Anderson); grandsons Xander and Cooper Dawson; niece Terry Bava (Tony); nephew Jay Chevako, and grand-nephew Julian Bava.
He will be missed beyond belief but his loved ones take comfort in knowing he is reunited with Sara again. Thank you for the love, laughs, kindness and wisdom you’ve shared over the years, Bob. Rest in Peace. No services are planned at this time. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a future date. Condolences for the Chevako family may be left at michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.
