Colonel Robert “Bob” Martin Buchta

August 10, 2022 11:39 AM

Posted: August 10, 2022 11:39 AM

Colonel Robert Martin “Bob” Buchta, 83, passed away at his home on August 5, 2022.

Born and raised in Binghamton, New York, Bob was the eldest of 10 children born to working class parents. When he was old enough, he helped support the family as a paper boy, delivering the Binghamton Press. This effort turned out to be life changing, as through this job, Bob was awarded a four-year scholarship to Le Moyne College, Syracuse, NY, where he graduated with a degree in Biology in 1961. Bob was accepted into medical school at New York State University at Syracuse, however he ultimately opted to join the United States Air Force and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in 1962. As a 1st Lieutenant, Bob earned a Master’s in Engineering Management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

He then spent his career in the Air Force supporting weapon systems development. He often remembered fondly his duty at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, where he managed the development of the ammunition for the famous A-10 “Warthog” 30mm GAU-8/U cannon. He also served tours supporting the development of early missile warning systems, as well as development of command, control, and communications for ballistic missile defense systems. Bob attained the rank of Colonel and retired from the Air Force in January 1987 after 24 years of service. Bob continued serving his country for an additional 11 years in the private sector through senior roles with Department of Defense contractors.

Bob was funny, kind, and generous. He enjoyed investing, gardening, conversation, fine food, family gatherings, and sports, including several years playing on the Eastside Bocce league. An excellent athlete, he would destroy you on the racquetball court or run circles around you on the track. But his favorite sport was golf, which he learned from his father, also an avid golfer. Golf events featured prominently at family gatherings, where he meticulously organized the competition and gave out prizes to the winners. He also enjoyed serving for many years as the Secretary for the Madison Area Retired Golf Association.

Bob was a consummate family man, attending to the events and needs of family members everywhere. He was a devoted husband, father, patriarch to his many siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and a patriot for his country. He never forgot to call and send a card for any occasion and delighted in creating the artwork himself for that extra personal touch. He was adored by his family and friends.

Bob is survived by his wife, Tracy (Miller) Buchta; children: Monica (Greg) Dawson, Stephanie (Walter) Kazmierczak; grandchildren: Maj. Robert (Rita) Dawson, Longina (Dr. Ian) Kozlowski, Luke Kazmierczak, Lara Kazmierczak; siblings, Dr. Dick (Diane) Buchta, David (Donna) Buchta, Jim Buchta, Sue (Tim) Bradley, Chrissy (Buchta) Geller, Marty (Kathy) Buchta, Michael (Debbie) Buchta, Teresa (Col. Rich) Edwards; great grandchildren: Emilia, Caroline, Wyatt, Mabel; a multitude of nieces and nephews, and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his first wife Longina (Fisch) Buchta; parents: Martin and Pauline Buchta; sister, Patricia (Buchta) Lyon-Surrey; brother-in-law, Bob Lyon.

His legacy of love, devotion, and honor are his enduring values passed forward to future generations. Your beloved family salutes and thanks you from the bottom of our hearts.A private service is planned for a later date.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services2418 N. Sherman Avenue608-249-8257

COPYRIGHT 2022 BY CHANNEL 3000. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.