Obituary of Robert J Pietrucha

Robert J Pietrucha

Sunrise August 4, 1927

Sunset  February 21, 2023

Robert J. Pietrucha, 95, passed peacefully with family at his side in his home that he loved, in Merritt Island, Florida. Bob and his wife Virginia shared 72 wonderful years together.

Born in Syracuse NY, he attended Sacred Heart School, Christian Brothers Academy, and Lemoyne College. Bob retired as Deputy Director of Onondaga County War Memorial. He proudly served in the Army Air Force during WWII along with his brother, Col. Joseph J. Pietrucha. He was active in many Republican Clubs, Polish Veteran Organizations and affiliated with many other activities. He devoted his life to the Polish community on the west end of Syracuse, as President of the Syracuse Polish Home for many years. He was very active at the Sacred Heart Basilica where he served as a faithful usher.

For over fifty years, Bob hosted and produced the Polish Polka Jamboree. He was better known as “The Silver Fox of Polkas”.  He felt the need to broadcast his show “Live” to the Polish community every Sunday afternoon. Those who were lucky enough to have known Bob were left with a positive impression, a gratitude for life, and the memory of his golden voice. Bob had a love of classic cars, especially the red shiny ones and those in “mint” condition. He was a proud American, and could often be heard saying, “God Bless America”.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Virginia P. Pietrucha (Wroblewski), daughter Peggy Robinson (Russ) of Merritt Island, FL, son Robert M. Pietrucha (Charlotte) of Marcellus, NY, and daughter Regina “Gigi” Banas (late Chris), of Kenai, Alaska, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Calling hours will be 10:30 AM till 12 noon on Thursday, March 9th, at Hollis Funeral Home, 1105 West Genesee St., Syracuse.

Burial will follow at 1 PM at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 4069 Howlett Hill Road, Syracuse.

A prayer service will be held at The Basilica of The Sacred Heart of Jesus on Friday, March 10, at 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations may be made to The Basilica of The Sacred Heart of Jesus 927 Park Avenue Syracuse New York 13204

or the Syracuse Polish Community Foundation Inc. 915 Park Avenue Syracuse New York 13204 ( a non-profit 501c3 corporation)