Robert Misko

Robert G. Misko passed away August 12, 2021, at his home in Gilbertsville, PA, surrounded by his loving family. The husband of Lesley (Huss) Misko, with whom he shared nearly 43 years of loving marriage, Robert was an adoring father to his son, Sean A. Misko, whom he cherished, and a caring brother to his sister, Carol A. O’Keefe. Born in Sharon, PA, July 8, 1949, Robert was the son of the late George and Gertrude (Thomas) Misko. Robert earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration, both from Penn State University. He began his career as an English teacher at Boyertown Area Senior High School (BASH). As an educator, he helped to shape the lives of students outside the classroom. He organized twice-yearly trips to Broadway shows that provided students with their first exposure to New York City and live theater. With the BASH marching unit he advised the band front and was the “golden voice” announcing concerts and field shows. He co-directed musical theater productions, helped with fundraising, and chaperoned trips including to music festivals abroad. Later he served as adviser to the BASH class of 1987. In 1987 after earning Principal Certification from the University of Pennsylvania, Robert became the assistant principal of Emmaus Junior High School in the East Penn School District. A few years later he was named principal and oversaw the transition to middle schools and the construction of the new Lower Macungie Middle School. During those years, Robert continued to advocate for students and built strong ties with staff and parents, recognizing them as essential stakeholders in the educational process. He remained a strong supporter of the arts, demonstrating his conviction that education is about nurturing a whole person. After retiring from East Penn in 2007, Robert embarked on the third phase of his career, joining the education faculty at DeSales University, at first to supervise student teachers and later coordinating student teacher placements and mentoring. Robert was thrilled that Sean chose to follow in his footsteps by attending Penn State. A loyal Nittany Lion, he loved spending crisp autumn weekends in Happy Valley. Watching Sean perform as a member of Blue Band was especially exciting. An avid gardener, Robert found joy in amassing beautiful day lilies and other assorted flowers around the house and pool. Each season brought its own beauty. Cooking and baking were indoor passions. Homemade pizza and stuffed cabbage, crab cakes and lamb racks were special favorites. He turned out fluffy chiffon cakes and flavorful fruit crisps with apples from local orchards that he loved to frequent. A lover of musical theater, he was known to spend evenings in the living room singing along to show tunes. Robert also was an engaged citizen, always reading the latest news in the New York Times and watching MSNBC. He enjoyed discussing world events with friends. Relaxing in the pool was another favorite activity on hot summer days. Over the years Robert cultivated loving bonds with an array of family pets. Fiona, the current cat in residence, was no exception since he won her heart with daily brushing and lots of treats. Robert was active in numerous community organizations, including Building A Better Boyertown. He was delighted by Boyertown’s flourishing, but sometimes hidden community of artists and Studio B art gallery. He also served on the Board of his synagogue, Congregation Hesed Shel Emet. Visitation is planned for Monday, August 16, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., with the service beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Houck & Gofus Funeral Home, 955 N. Charlotte St., Pottstown, PA 19464. Covid vaccination and mask required. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Congregation Hesed Shel Emet, P. O. Box 272, Pottstown, PA 19464 or to Boyertown Music League, P.O. Box 211, Boyertown, PA 19512; designate “in memory of Robert Misko.” Online condolences may be made to the family at www.houckgofusfuneralhome.com.