- Date Of Birth: October 3, 1944
- Date Of Death: October 11, 2016
- State: New Jersey
Robert “Bob” J. Gorski, 72, of Atlantic Highlands, NJ, passed away in his home surrounded by his family after a brave battle with cancer on October 11, 2016. Born in Newark, NJ, Bob became the patriarch of his family at the age of 5 when his father passed away suddenly.
He attended Catholic University where he graduated in 1967 from the School of Architecture and Planning. Twenty days later, Bob married the love of his life, Frances Wojton of Elizabeth, NJ, and began his long, esteemed career as an architect.
Prior to residing in Atlantic Highlands, Bob lived in Rumson, NJ, where he served as Borough Councilman for four terms. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Fran; two daughters and sons-in-law, Jennifer and Paul Greenjack and Melissa and Pete Snyder; two grandchildren, Nick and Stella Snyder; two brothers, Jeff and wife Nancy, Doug and wife Dori; two sisters, Linda and husband Jay Duncan, Sandy Palasti and husband Peter Gusmer; sister-in-law, JoAnn Korb; numerous nieces and nephews; and Shar-Pei sidekick, Henry. He is predeceased by his mother and stepfather, Jean and Alex Palasti.
Bob always put his family first, loving them with his huge heart and gentle soul. When he played with his grandchildren, there was nothing else in the world that mattered. With his dry sense of humor, Bob could make people laugh simply by saying “spoon.” His favorite pastimes were fishing, golfing, guy’s night, and watching TV (“you mean to tell me ‘Gone with the Wind’ was a book?”). He used to say, “Take it easy!” which clearly communicates how he lived his life.
Bob worked in the field of architecture since 1965 and began his private practice in 1970. After many years of building the original firm as senior partner of Gorski/Waldron/Jefferson and Reilly, he practiced on the Jersey Shore as the sole principal of Gorski Architects.
As a lifelong resident, Bob invested in the growth and improvement of the Jersey shore. He would do anything for anyone without expecting anything in return.
Bob had been a corporate member of the American Institute of Architects and the New Jersey Society of Architects. He also volunteered his time and professional assistance as: Chairman of the Board for the Institute of Design and Construction (Brooklyn, NY), Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Battista Design Atelier, Rumson Country Club Board Member, Commissioner of Public Works, Deputy Police Commissioner, Planning Board and Zoning Board Member for 30+ years, Chairman of the Construction Board of Appeals, Member for the Monmouth County Block Grant Program, Board Member of the Christian Children’s Relief Fund, Board Member of the Family and Children’s Service, and last, but not least, Founder & CEO of C.U. Geezer Golf.
Bob was loved and respected by all he met and will truly be missed by his family, countless friends and business associates. His legacy will live on forever in the many homes and buildings he designed throughout New Jersey. He had a special place in his heart for children and pets.
A special thank you to all his doctors who did everything in their power and VNACJ hospice for making his final days comfortable. We love you, Dad!
