Obituary of Robert E. Brucker

Robert “Bob” E. Brucker, age 75, passed away peacefully at home, in Erie, on Saturday, August 1, 2015. Bob began his career as a member of IBEW Local 56, as an electrical tradesman. He quickly realized his passion for teaching and traveled nightly to Pittsburgh, in order to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Education, from the University of Pittsburgh. His formal teaching career began as the first Industrial Electricity instructor at the (then new) Erie County Technical School. After years of teaching hundreds of future tradesman, Bob continued in education as the Principal of the school. His career then led him to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, where he was a Regional Field Consultant for Vocational Education. He retired from this position in 2003. Wishing to teach again, in retirement, Bob enjoyed the opportunity to help expand the knowledge of the apprentices, at Connecto Electric Company. During his career he helped develop the Pennsylvania State exam for electrical instructors and was sought after to evaluate electrical programs across the country. Bob was a skillful educator and a teacher at heart. He is survived by his wife and friend, of 52 years, Jean; three children: Brian (Karen), Aaron, and Wendy (Todd) Meeker; two dear grandchildren: Casey and Hudson; and his loyal dog Dandie. He is also survived by his sister, Jane (Elwin) Hildum. The boats and hovercraft that Bob built continue to sail in peaceful waters, as a material legacy. But his true legacy is found within our hearts - which remain full of love and admiration. Bob was a good, kind man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Private services will be held by the family under the direction of the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 4216 Sterrettania Rd.