Robert M. Planchak
of New Kensington, PA

Robert M. Planchak, 62, died on  Monday, March 31, 2014.  He was born June 19, 1951 in Arnold, PA to the late James M. Planchak and Gloria Pampaloni.

Bob was graduated from Valley High School in 1969 where he was known for his scholastic, athletic, and civic achievements. After high school, Bob completed his Bachelors of Science degree and post graduate work in Biology and Physiology at Duquesne University. And on May 30, 1981, he married Helen Pawlik at the Methodist Retreat Center in Jumonville, PA.  Early in his career, Bob was employed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical School performing research in the physiology labs, where a portion of his research was published in medical journals. He went on to tutor mathematics and science for Community College of Allegheny County. In 1987, Bob became Vice President and software engineer for Exec-Tech Services, Inc., a New Kensington based computer software development and consulting firm.  In 1996, Bob began to work full time on the restoration of their more than 100 year old home, located on Fifth Avenue in Parnassus that is both an achievement of a lifetime and a labor of love for his wife. It will remain a tribute to his commitment to excellence.  He developed a passion for studying Scripture, reformed theology, and Christian Apologetics after he accepted Christ to be his Lord and Savior, in 1980. He was a man rich in knowledge and understanding who shared liberally with others. Many individuals have expressed their appreciation for his giftedness in teaching and leading small group Bible studies and discussion groups. Bob’s interests spanned from a love of all types of music, especially classical and Spanish guitar, to literature, philosophy, and architecture. However, his love for science remained the interest of his life.  Bob had a generous and kind spirit and will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and neighbors.

Family and friends are invited from 2-4 and 6-8 Thursday and Friday at the CHURCHFIELD-PETERS FUNERAL HOME, 501 Fifth Avenue, New Kensington, PA  15068 (724-335-1951). Funeral services will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Saturday at the Christ Church at Grove Farms, 249 Duff Road, Sewickley, PA  15143 with the Reverend Barry Mariana, officiating.  Burial will be private.  For on line condolences please visit us at www.petersfamilyfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations may be made to the following non-profit organizations in memory of Bob: Ligonier Ministries / Ligonier.org
Samaritan Fund c/o Christ Church at Grove Farm, 249 Duff Road, Sewickley, PA 15143

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