Robert L. Goterba, 81, passed away Monday, May 4, 2026, in Salem, Ohio, with his family by his side.

He was born on January 31, 1945, the son of Carl and Marjorie (Ockerman) Goterba. He graduated from Springfield High School in 1963.

Bob served in the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged from the Army in 1974. He worked at General Motors for 30 years until his retirement.

Bob married Kay Cook in October of 2002. They have spent many years growing together and loving each other deeply.

Bob was a big fan of Jeff Gordon and NASCAR. Together, Bob and Kay went to many NASCAR races until his health started to decline six years ago. Bob also loved the Cleveland Browns and Guardians. He always appreciated the times he was able to sit down and watch a game. He was also passionate about food, whether it was going out to eat or a homecooked meal, and family outings around town.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Kay, two daughters, Rebecca (Mike) Tibbs and Tami (Kenny) Combs, a son, William (Tamar) Goterba and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Timothy Hippely, his grandson, Richard Dennison, a brother, Jack Goterba, and sister-in-law, Marilyn Goterba.

He will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park in Beloit.

The family would like to thank Bob’s caregivers who made the transitional times a bit easier and gave such good care to Bob, specifically, Joyce Faucett and Tami Shuttler. They would also like to thank their wonderful neighbors for always being there for them.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.