Robert John Natusch Sr.

Robert John William Natusch, Sr. Schenectady – Robert John William Natusch, Sr. (you may have referred to him as Bob or Opa), 98, peacefully passed away on December 11, 2017. Bob was the son of the late William and Marie Bruns Natusch, and the husband of the late Gladys Neidinger Natusch.

Bob enlisted in the Army on May 25, 1943, serving in the Air Corps. He was stationed in Virginia and used his gifting to serve as a base and aerial photographer. He was honorably discharged as a Sergeant on February 4, 1946.

Bob lived his many years one day at a time, deliberately appreciating each as its own gift. His sweet, trustworthy, vibrant, and gentle heart encouraged the best in those around him. He always saw the beauty and majesty of God’s creation and experienced life to the fullest. He explored countless foreign countries and all 50 states and loved to share the stories of his travels. He was humble, wise, loyal, selfless, and honest. He loved the Lord with all his heart, with all his soul, and with all his mind.

Bob loved to dance, spend time at the ocean, play in the snow, tend to his garden and lawn, and go for long morning walks in the fresh air. He loved to laugh. Most days, he would be found looking through his camera or working on art projects for his church; painting, typography, and stained glass were his favorites.

Bob was blessed with as full and healthy a life one could ask for.  He lived his 98 years with a happy spirit, lovingly telling others about his Savior, Jesus Christ. He left this life loved and well respected.  Our hearts mourn, but we rejoice as he now may feast at the Lord’s Table forevermore.    

His legacy is carried on by his son Robert J. (Nancy) Natusch, Jr. of Florida, and his grandchildren, Bryan (Amber) Natusch of New Hampshire, Kylene (Eric) Chin of Florida, and Aaron (Natalie) Natusch of Virginia. Bob is also survived by his longtime companion, Beatrice Mizerak of New York, whom he lovingly referred to as Cherry. He is further survived by six great grandchildren (Gaige, Colby, Rhys, Sawyer, Peyta, and Flynn), his daughter-in-love, Karin Natusch, and by his dear friends, Eileen Leland, Wayne Mizerak, and Brian Mizerak.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial to celebrate his life on Saturday, December 16, at 1 P.M. at the Konicek & Collett Funeral Home, LLC, 1855 12th Avenue, Watervliet, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Bob’s memory to your home church or preferred children’s organization would be appreciated.