Obituary of Robert Zacharko

Robert Michael Zacharko, 63, of Ottawa, Ontario, passed away on Monday, January 4, 2016 following a long illness. Bob was born April 13, 1952 in Montréal, Quebec to Nicolas and Olga Zacharko (nee Wishnoska). He finished his secondary studies at Cardinal Newman High School and went on to complete his undergraduate degree at Concordia University in Montreal. Post-graduate studies followed at University of Saskatoon where he received his doctorate specializing in the study of neuroscience. He finished his career as a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Carleton University. Bob was an active teacher and researcher throughout his career, introducing thousands of students to the study of neuroscience and guiding many through their undergraduate and graduate thesis projects. His intense curiosity in the natural world and the human mind resulted in a life filled with the discovery and exchange of knowledge; Bob was always as ready to learn from a person as he was to teach and his easy manner and generous nature are an example to all who knew him. In his personal life he was a loyal friend, a devoted husband, and a fiercely proud father. Bob is survived by his beloved wife Marilyn Kasian and his children Bobby and Sarah, of Ottawa; his sister Sandy (Robert Rondeau) of Montréal; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and friends spanning from Halifax to Victoria. He is predeceased by his parents. The family would like to thank the caring and compassionate professionals at Madonna Long Term Care and the Montfort Hospital. A private memorial service will be held in Ottawa. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to The Ottawa Humane Society or the Alzheimer’s Society. Condolences may be addressed at: www.heritagefh.ca A brilliant mind, a razor-sharp wit, and a kind heart.