Robert E. Bouchikas Obituary
Robert E. “Bob” Bouchikas, 80, of St. Joseph, passed away on September 25, 2026, at his home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel and Cremation Services. A graveside service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, October 7, at Hickory Bluff Cemetery with Pastor Marlo Fritzke officiating. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com
Bob was born on October 19, 1945, in St. Louis, Missouri, to George Bouchikas and Dorothy Brons. Before completing high school, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he bravely served our country from 1962 to1968 and was honorably discharged. While serving, Bob spent one year deployed in Vietnam and earned the Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge.
After returning home, Bob married the love of his life, Wanda Holmer, in Benton Heights. They shared nearly 59 years of devoted marriage before her passing earlier this month.
Bob built a long and dedicated career as a supervisor with Zenith Heath Co., serving for 38 years and taking pride in being one of the company’s last employees before it closed. He also gave back to his community as a volunteer Marine Patrol officer with the sheriff’s department.
A devoted father, Bob loved coaching his children’s sports teams and cheering them on from the sidelines. He enjoyed camping, game nights with family and friends, and collecting Hallmark ornaments, beer steins, and Richie Rich comics. He was also an enthusiastic Chicago Bears fan. Above all, Bob’s greatest passion was fishing; if there was a body of water nearby, chances are you could find him there, rod in hand and a smile on his face.
Bob is survived by his children, Teresa (John) Dente of St. Joseph and Nicholas (Tammy) Bouchikas of Stevensville; grandchildren, Anthony Dente, Robert (Kennedy Turnbow) Dente, Cameron (Erika Knuth) Bouchikas and Rachel Selent; great-grandchildren, Sophia, Joseph, Beckner and one great-grandchild on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents, George & Dorothy; and loving wife, Wanda.
