Robert Checkosky

Robert T. Checkosky, 73

Southbridge - Robert T. Checkosky, 73, of Janet Ave., passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 21st, in his home, after a long battle with cancer.

He leaves his wife of 52 years, Marilyn A. (Ryan) Checkosky; his four sons, Robert T. Checkosky, Jr. and his wife Diane of Parker, CO, William D. Checkosky of Manchester, CT, Kevin M. Checkosky and his wife Marie of Southbridge, and Michael J. Checkosky of Southbridge; two brothers, David Checkosky and his wife Maria of Brookfield, CT and Thomas Checkosky of Syracuse, NY; his sister, Mary Beth Barclay and her husband Peter of Syracuse, NY; his five grandchildren, Sarah Checkosky, Olivia Checkosky, Grace Checkosky, Jackson Checkosky and Eli Checkosky; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers, Frankie Checkosky and Michael Checkosky. He was born in Syracuse, NY the son of the late Frank and Margaret (Keenan) Checkosky. Bob was a graduate of St. Patrick's High School in Syracuse. He was a graduate of Onadaga Community College and received his bachelor degree from Cortland State University. He did his graduate studies at the University of Florida.

Bob was a research chemist working for the American Optical Co. in Southbridge, AccuStandard in Connecticut, Uvex in Rhode Island and for Gentex Co. in Dudley, before retiring. He was well known in the lens industry for his expertise in lens coatings. He was very active in the Southbridge community, serving as a Town Councilman; served on the Recreation Committee; serving as chairman of the School Committee; serving as chairman of the Board of Health; and serving as the chairman of the Police Station Building Committee. He was also a long time Umpire for the Southbridge Babe Ruth League.

Bob enjoyed vacationing at his families' cabin at Eagle Bay in the Adirondacks. He was an avid reader and enjoyed crossword and jigsaw puzzles. He was also an avid Red Sox fan.

Bob's greatest joy in life was his family.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 27th, from the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a Mass at 10:00am in Notre Dame Church of the St. John Paul II Parish, 446 Main St., Southbridge. Burial will be in St. Hedwig's Cemetery, Southbridge. Calling hours in the funeral home will be held on Monday, Dec. 26th, from 5:00 to 7:00pm.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Cancer Center at Harrington, 55 Sayles St., Southbridge, MA 01550.

www.morrillfuneralhome.com