Robert J. Olach

Robert J. Olach, 80, of Crystal Lake, passed away on March 12, 2026. He was born March 18, 1945, in New Castle, Pennsylvania, the son of the late John and Helen (Chabak) Olach.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era while stationed in Vietnam and Thailand. He later continued his service in the Air Force Reserves and retired with the rank of Major.

Bob was a man of integrity with a great sense of humor and a charismatic, fun-loving spirit. Always positive and extremely generous, he was known for his kindness, strong ethics, and genuine desire to help others. Bob was passionate about fly fishing, especially tying his own flies, and he greatly enjoyed working on cars. Whether on the water or in the garage, he was happiest tinkering, telling stories, and sharing what he loved with others. In particular, his 1968 Volkswagen Beetle and his 1968 MG gave him much pleasure.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Joan; children, Michael Paul Olach and Christine Marie Olach; grandchildren, Richie (Samantha), Jake, and Ally (Logan); great-grandchildren, Hazel and Jackson; his niece, Janet and her family; and Olga Olach, widow of his late nephew, Johnny, and their family.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Richard (Patti) Olach; and his nephew, Johnny Olach.

A memorial visitation will be held Friday, April 10, from 10:00 a.m. until the Mass at 12:00 noon at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Crystal Lake.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Sunrise of Crystal Lake and JourneyCare Hospice for the compassionate and attentive care they provided for Bob.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to any of the following:

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 1023 McHenry Ave, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 www.elizabethannseton.org

ImABridge Africa, P.O. Box 752, Sycamore, IL 60178 www.ImABridge.org

JourneyCare, 405 Lake Zurich Rd., Barrington, IL 60010 or www.journeycare.org/donate/