Robert J. Pavuchak's Obituary
Robert J. Pavuchak, age 79, of West Mifflin, peacefully crossed the bridge to the other side while surrounded by his loving family at home on August 26, 2018. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Audrey Pavuchak; son, Bob "Pav" (Marty) Pavuchak; daughters, Ann (Justin) Pippy and Amber (Jerry) Thomas; his cherished grandchildren, John, Kristy (Rob), Nicole, Ethan, Alexa, Caden, Dalton, Urban, and Jessa; great-granddaughter, Reagan; sister, LaVerne (Dick) Ackerman of Cincinnati, OH; and many family members and friends. He was also the proud uncle and godfather of many nieces and nephews, who all loved and admired "Uncle Bob". He was preceded in death by his precious grandson, baby Gavin.
Bob was a news photographer for the Pittsburgh Press/Post Gazette for 40 years before he retired in 2006. During his career as a photojournalist, he had the extraordinary knack of being at the right place at the right time to capture the perfect shot. He was the first photographer on the scene at Shanksville on 9/11 - his story can be heard there and some photos viewed. He spent many years covering Pirates training camp and capturing memorable photos of the Pirates, Steelers and Penguins. He took pictures of everything from feature photos, to sports, action, breaking news and people in all aspects of life. Many of his photographs became well-recognized and award-winning photos. He was a well-liked and respected co-worker, and distinguished member and former officer of the National Press Photographer's Association. His colleagues all admired him and thought he was a true gentleman and professional. He also dedicated 37 years to Allegheny County as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff. He was a boy scout leader and a veteran that served in the U.S. Army.
Bob was an avid train enthusiast. His train collection and set-up in his basement rivaled the display at the old Buhl Plantarium. One of his greatest joys in life was spending time with his grandchildren, especially running his trains for and with them. He truly loved being a Pappy, and spending countless hours with the kids, singing songs, dancing, playing cards or board games, rocking them or swinging on his porch swing, taking them fishing or swimming, going to watch their baseball games and other sports events, or getting ice cream. All of his children and grandchildren will always remember hearing him sing his favorite old Russian lullaby or camp songs. He was an excellent, self-taught handyman. He enjoyed hunting with his son and lifelong hunting partner, Pav. He really looked forward their annual hunting trips. He was happiest when traveling with his wife and lifetime companion, Audrey, visiting their favorite places, including Las Vegas, Florida and the New York and the Niagara area and casinos. They had lots of fun times at their cottage in Slippery Rock, and have many great memories of good times shared just being together with close family members and dear friends.
Bob will be remembered as a devoted and loving husband, great dad, amazing Pappy and a overall good man. He was a servant of the church and the Lord for all his life. He bravely fought his battle with colon cancer until the very end. His kind and gentle soul and caring ways will be greatly missed by his family and all that knew him.
A Memorial Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 30, 3-7 PM, and Friday, August 31, 12-3 & 5-8 PM at the JEFFERSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, INC., 301 Curry Hollow Rd., Pleasant Hills, 15236. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 1, 12 noon in the funeral home chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Variety "My Bike" charity (varietypittsburgh.org).
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