Robert John "Bobby" Kachmar

Robert John "Bobby" Kachmar,79, of El Campo passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 17, 1946 in Wharton. He married Florine Kaminsky on January 13, 1968. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother.

In his early adult life, he enjoyed countryside rides on his motorcycle. The first self-employed business he created was B & F Wholesale Food Service, then he mastered the art of bar-b-que by winning several cook-offs that turned into a successful business when he and Florine opened The Steampit Bar-B-Que restaurant that flourished for over two decades.

Together, they established Double J Ranch where he enjoyed raising Hereford cattle.

Those who knew him well know that he loved to bargain and trade, from garage sales and picking up treasures as they came along to wheeling and dealing to sell them. His days participating at Warrenton Antique Show brought him great joy.

He lived a life of hard work and dedication to provide for his family. Bobby loved to make people laugh. He could speak with his eyes and hands to get his point or joke across. His silly comments brought smiles and laughter to those who knew him.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Florine; and daughters Donna Knuppel (Alan) and Brenda Socha (Kirk); and his beloved grandchildren of whom he was so proud of, Weston Knuppel (Alexandra), Savannah Knuppel (Blaine), Kayleigh Gardner, Darby Socha and Keaton Socha.

He is preceded in death by his infant son Jeffery Scott Kachmar and 15-year-old son Jason Robert Kachmar, his parents, and two brothers.

Visitation will be 5 pm to 7 pm Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Triska Funeral Home with a parish Rosary being offered at 6 pm. The Funeral Mass will be 9 am Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at St. Philip Catholic Church with Rev. Collins Yaw-Tuum officiating. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Philip School Library, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the American Lung Association.