Obituaries

Colonel Robert "Bob" Martin Buchta

July 15, 1939 - August 05, 2022

Text:

Obituary For Colonel Robert "Bob" Martin Buchta

MADISON - Colonel Robert Martin “Bob” Buchta, 83, passed away at his home on August 5, 2022. Born and raised in Binghamton, New York, Bob was the eldest of 10 children born to working class parents. When he was old enough, he helped support the family as a paper boy, delivering the Binghamton Press. This effort turned out to be life changing, as through this job, Bob was awarded a four-year scholarship to Le Moyne College, Syracuse, NY, where he graduated with a degree in Biology in 1961. Bob was accepted into medical school at New York State University at Syracuse, however he ultimately opted to join the United States Air Force and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in 1962. As a 1st Lieutenant, Bob earned a Master’s in Engineering Management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He then spent his career in the Air Force supporting weapon systems development. He often remembered fondly his duty at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, where he managed the development of the ammunition for the famous A-10 “Warthog” 30mm GAU-8/U cannon. He also served tours supporting the development of early missile warning systems, as well as development of command, control, and communications for ballistic missile defense systems. Bob attained the rank of Colonel and retired from the Air Force in January 1987 after 24 years of service. Bob continued serving his country for an additional 11 years in the private sector through senior roles with Department of Defense contractors. Bob was funny, kind, and generous. He enjoyed investing, gardening, conversation, fine food, family gatherings, and sports, including several years playing on the Eastside Bocce league. An excellent athlete, he would destroy you on the racquetball court or run circles around you on the track. But his favorite sport was golf, which he learned from his father, also an avid golfer. Golf events featured prominently at family gatherings, where he meticulously organized the competition and gave out prizes to the winners. He also enjoyed serving for many years as the Secretary for the Madison Area Retired Golf Association. Bob was a consummate family man, attending to the events and needs of family members everywhere. He was a devoted husband, father, patriarch to his many siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and a patriot for his country. He never forgot to call and send a card for any occasion and delighted in creating the artwork himself for that extra personal touch. He was adored by his family and friends. Bob is survived by his wife, Tracy (Miller) Buchta; children: Monica (Greg) Dawson, Stephanie (Walter) Kazmierczak; grandchildren: Maj. Robert (Rita) Dawson, Longina (Dr. Ian) Kozlowski, Luke Kazmierczak, Lara Kazmierczak; siblings, Dr. Dick (Diane) Buchta, David (Donna) Buchta, Jim Buchta, Sue (Tim) Bradley, Chrissy (Buchta) Geller, Marty (Kathy) Buchta, Michael (Debbie) Buchta, Teresa (Col. Rich) Edwards; great grandchildren: Emilia, Caroline, Wyatt, Mabel; a multitude of nieces and nephews, and many friends. He is preceded in death by his first wife Longina (Fisch) Buchta; parents: Martin and Pauline Buchta; sister, Patricia (Buchta) Lyon-Surrey; brother-in-law, Bob Lyon. His legacy of love, devotion, and honor are his enduring values passed forward to future generations. Your beloved family salutes and thanks you from the bottom of our hearts. A private service is planned for a later date. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com. Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services 2418 N. Sherman Avenue 608-249-8257

Services

TBD

Private Services

, Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

Photos & Video

Add New Photos & Video

Condolences

  • August 20, 2022

    Bombardier Bob, we will miss your hospitality, art, generosity (except when playing 21), and humor. You've left a hole in the Miller family. XO - Neely

  • August 12, 2022

    What an amazing man. So happy I got the chance to meet him. I loved his sweet drawings. Onward and upward dear Bob.😇

  • August 11, 2022

    Tracy, I am sorry for your loss. You and Bob shared such a beautiful romance and so many adventures. I am thinking of you and wish I could help ease this loss, but there are just no words. Love to you! -- Barbara Segal

Tributes

  • Beautiful Dreams

    Beautiful Dreams was sent for Colonel Robert "Bob" Martin Buchta - August 10, 2022

Add a Candle

Click a candle below to add a candle to your message.

what our families say

Tiffany Foster went out of her way to fulfill all my requests, talked me through problems I was facing, and tried to make me feel as comfortable as possible when I was a wreck, totally crushed, and I thank her with all of my heart for that.

James S. | July 2020

The professional manner of the staff made a difficult time a little easier.

Lynda R. | July 2020

Services provided for both parents were perfect, on time, and no issues. Brenda is awesome and strong!

Michael M. | July 2020

Skyler was absolutely amazing. She was so caring and helpful through this whole process. She even went above and beyond to meet with us in DeForest and even to make a stop at our home to drop off or pick up anything needed. While it was a small gesture, it was so helpful and greatly appreciated.

Brooke S. | Dec. 2020

Madison North East

2418 N. Sherman Avenue
Madison, WI 53704
Tel: 608-249-8257

Madison West

5701 Odana Road
Madison, WI 53719
Tel: 608-274-1000

Verona

220 S. Enterprise Drive
Verona, WI 53593
Tel: 608-845-6625

DeForest / Windsor

6924 Lake Road
DeForest, WI 53532
Tel: 608-846-4250