https://player.memoryshare.com/video/robert-sarko-chesapeake-va Robert Michael Sarko "Bob", 90, longtime resident of
Chesapeake, Va, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 23, 2025 in Williamsburg, Va. Born in New Castle, Pa., he was the son of the late Michael and Clara Sarko, "annoying" brother to Betty Pakovitch and loving husband to the late Marilyn Sarko. They are survived by their daughter Cindy of Williamsburg, Va.
Bob never met a stranger. He was always ready to talk business, grocery prices and just simple life matters. Everyone fell in love with his kind soul, sweet smile, blue eyes and his ability to make people feel comfortable no matter what the circumstance. His advice skills were spot on and always encouraged others to do the right thing always. Common sense guidance was his motto. He was a man of integrity.
Bob was an exceptional grocer and had an incredible business mind. He began his career as a bag boy at Kroger's and worked tirelessly through several grocers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Virginia. His passion and lifelong goals were to own his own grocery store that catered to the local community. Bob achieved this when he purchased Little Earle's, a staple store on the outskirts of Great Bridge. He loved serving the people and it was evident the community loved him. His deli, fried chicken, homemade rolls and meat cutting skills were extraordinary. Vacationers would make Little Earle's a must-stop on their way to the Outer Banks.
Bob was an avid sports fan. He and Marilyn watched and attended all kinds of sporting events. It was a big part of their beautiful relationship. Bob loved the ponies. He would study racing forms of upcoming horse races for days. He knew every jockey, trainer and even the horses' diets. Friends and family would call him for his picks, and the Triple Crown and Breeder's Cup were Bob's specialty.
Bob loved spending time with his sister, Betty Pakovitch from New Castle, Pa. They are both fantastic cooks and bakers. Swapping recipes was a favorite pastime for him. His pepperoni rolls were mouth-watering and were always a holiday request from family and friends. Bob adored his beloved nieces and nephews Leah; Mike; Annette; Marsha; Pam; Dan; Mark; Glen; Johnny; Mike and Ron, plus all his adoring grand nieces, nephews and their spouses. They loved their Uncle Bob. His extended Busch Gardens and Croaker family also held a special place in his heart. He was proud to know these wonderful people.
He had a bond with the four-legged family members, Princess; Shamrock; Copper Gal; Jet Flash; Jazzmyn, Morgan, Cotton and Pearl. He loved taking the dogs to do a store check or stopping at the drive-thru to pick up an extra biscuit to share.
Bob's family would like to extend a heart-felt thank you to the many caregivers who lovingly watched over him the past few months. These extraordinary people are a blessing to the family and especially to him.
Visitation will be held at Oman Funeral Home, 653 Cedar Rd.,
Chesapeake, Va. On Sun., June 29 at 1 p.m. The celebration service begins at 2 p.m. and interment will follow the service at Chesapeake Memorial Gardens. Friends are invited to share memories and sign the online guestbook at www.omanfh.com.
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