Robert William Gochoel Jr.

Gochoel, Jr. Robert William Gochoel, Jr., age 69, of Gahanna, OH, passed away on August 24, 2016, surrounded by his wife and two children. Born to the late Robert and Rosanna (Wilfert) Gochoel, he is survived by his wife and best friend of 46 years, Susan (Wotowski); dear brothers, Gary (Catherine) and Richard (Nancy) Gochoel; two loving children, Robert III (Amy) Gochoel and Erica (Brad) Bednar; and five grandchildren, Anna, Raegan and Jonathan Gochoel, Chase and Emerson Bednar; as well as extended family and dear friends. Bob grew up in Cincinnati and graduated from Sycamore High School. He attended and graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in Microbiology where he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and met his wife. He graduated from the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy in 1972 and served as a Trooper and then as a Forensic Chemist in the state crime lab in Columbus for most of his career. Bob and his family were involved in a serious motor vehicle accident in 1983 that caused his permanent paralysis and confinement to a wheelchair. After spending nearly 7 months in hospitals, he returned to work to provide for his family and make the most of his life. His work ethic and positive approach to life have been an inspiration to his family and countless others. In 1990, he was honored at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. as the Victory Award recipient representing the state of Ohio for his "tenacity and courage in overcoming serious obstacles". After retiring in 1998 with 26 years of service with the State Highway Patrol, Bob followed another passion by substitute teaching in the Gahanna-Jefferson School District and as a frequent speaker for the Franklin County Wellness Driver Intervention Program to help DUI offenders better understand the consequences of drinking and driving. As a devoted Christian, Husband, Father, Grandfather and Friend, Bob lived for others and always focused on the positive aspects of life. His selflessness was most evident in him asking anyone he spoke to "How are you doing?" before ever speaking about his own struggles. He will be dearly missed, but is surely rejoicing with his savior in heaven. Please join us in honoring the life of Bob during a visitation Monday, August 29, 2016, from 4-7 p.m. at SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST, 1051 East Johnstown Road, Gahanna, OH. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 30, 2016, at Central College Presbyterian Church, 975 S. Sunbury Rd., Westerville, OH. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Central College Presbyterian Church or the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. A special "thank you" to our church, neighbors and friends for all of your love and support! To leave online condolences visit www.schoedinger.com.