Robert Kucera

Robert C. "Kuch" Kucera, aged 75, passed away January 28, 2026, in Ravenna, Ohio.

Robert grew up in Kent, Ohio and graduated from Kent State University High School in 1969. While attending KSUHS, Robert exceeded scholastically while advancing his athletic skills. He received frequent football awards, earned the reputation as an elusive running back and defensively as the hardest hitter on the team weighing just 135 pounds. He also excelled on the wrestling mat, winning countless local and regional tournaments and qualifying for the State of Ohio High School Wrestling Championship.

It was through sports that he was dubbed “Kuch” primarily because the public address announcers and coaches struggled to pronounce Ku-ce-ra. And this nickname was used throughout his lifetime.

As a superfan, he dreamed of the Browns winning the Superbowl, the Guardians winning the world series and Duke locking up additional NCAA championships. He cherished relaxing and grilling with family and friends. He was in his element outdoors while working on major projects or slashing vines, cutting trees, or weeding grass. “Kuch,” was a voracious reader, loved listening to music, and playing chess at a prominent level.

Starting when the grandchildren were 4 years old, he lovingly taught Scarlett, now nine, and Wilder, now six, the keys to mastering chess matches. Frequently, Scarlett called by phone to read to him. He also taught Wilder wrestling techniques and holds. Both fondly called him Bobbo.

Upon graduating high school, he attended Ohio University and Kent State University where his fascination with science intensified. Upon receiving his bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in 1976, he was accepted into the highly prestigious Duke University Forestry program. In 1979, he graduated with a master’s degree in forestry.

This complex man’s jobs required the brightest scientific minds. He worked as a section chief with the Alabama Forestry Commission in Alabama. In North Carolina, his career included ManTech Planning International as a project scientist and Environmental Policy International as an environmental specialist. He also held critical IT positions at Egghead Software, Skyes Enterprises supporting IBM and Cisco. At Duke University Divinity, he served as IT support manager which enabled him to ride his bicycle on campus.

He was in his element when outdoors. From classifying bugs, heading environment projects, cutting trees, slashing vines, or weeding, being outdoors drove his decisions. He followed this passion and became the caretaker for West Point on the Eno in Durham, NC. He then moved into the apartment above the 1800s museum house to be closer to nature. Often taking time to watch deer, birds, and any wildlife while sipping morning coffee in the forest. Civically, he was enthusiastic about nature and the health of his community. “Kuch” became the mainstay for the Eno River project which flows through Durham. His dedication, hard work and big heart resulted in healing the river and those the river touched.“Kuch” is survived by his brother Dr. Jim Kucera and spouse Abbey. They have three children. Son Bob Kucera and spouse Mei Yang, daughter Serena Kucera and spouse Raj Bahkta, and non-binary child Pan Kucera. Sister Kathleen Frazier retired from teaching and lives in California. She and husband Larry (recently deceased) have two sons, Hie Frazier and Chris Frazier. Hie is married to Sharon and have two children. Daughter Leandra Mendoza and spouse Robert have two children.

“Kuch’s” loving daughter, Sarah MacDonald lives with her husband Graham, children Scarlett and Wilder, plus two dogs in South Carolina. “Kuch” was blessed with a close family, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and friends that enriched his life.

“Kuch” lived with the generous MacDonald family for 18 months while recovering from a severe stroke that occurred more than a decade ago. He then moved to Ohio where he reunited with close friends who visited him weekly. They started a lunch bunch that met “Kuch” every Thursday for years to share smiles, jokes, memories, hugs, chili, and homemade molasses cookies. The entire Kucera family received great comfort knowing he was surrounded by such caring and loving lifetime friends.

Preceded in death, father, Fred Kucera, an emeritus economics professor at Kent State University and mother, Deloris Kucera who taught at Franklin Elementary School for over 30 years in Kent. They were also active in the community and served in the Peace Corp. “Kuch’s” son, Josh passed away last year while living in South Carolina; older brother, Fred died in 2009. Fred and spouse Connie Chan Kucera lived in California for years. She has three adult children, Matthew is married to Elaine and they have two children, Andrew and spouse Crystal have one daughter, and daughter, Rachel is engaged to Alex.

Family and friends will honor him with a Celebration of Life gathering Saturday May 9, 2026, at the Event at Parkside, 6500 Lakeview Drive, Brady Lake Ohio. The activities begin at 6:00 PM and conclude at 8:00 PM.

In Lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted for “The Scarlett and Wilder College Fund.” Donations are welcome anytime and at the Celebration of Life gathering in May. Current donation information is available from family members or by texting 614-519-0012.

The entire Kucera family wishes to extend their gratitude to the caregivers, nurses, and staff at The Avenue in Aurora where he spent his last eight years.

Cremation Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.