Online Obituaries

Robert “Bob” A. Garstka, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 7, 2021 in the company of his beloved wife, caregiver and best friend, Margot.  Robert was born in Chicopee on September 18, 1937, to the late Andrew “Hank”  and Janet (Michalski) Garstka.  He was a graduate of Chicopee High School and attended Monson Academy and Boston College. Bob graduated from Long Island University with a BA Degree. He proudly served his country in the Finance Corp of the U. S. Army.  After receiving an honorable discharge, Bob worked for several accounting firms in New York City as an Auditor/Accountant.  Upon returning to Massachusetts, he was hired to work in the Massachusetts State Auditor’s Office. While there, he applied for and received a position in the Personnel Office of the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, MA.  Through a series of promotions in his 35-year tenure, Bob became the Director of Human Resources, where he remained for the last fifteen years before he retired.  Upon his retirement, he was awarded the Chancellors Medal for outstanding service and was given emeritus status.  Bob and his wife, Margot, owned and operated one of the first Bed & Breakfast homes in South Hadley, Massachusetts called Grandmarys.

Besides his wife, Margot, Bob leaves 3 sons, James and his wife, Noelle of Tampa, FL, Thomas of Orlando, FL and Michael of Cape Cod, MA.  He also leaves his 4 beloved grandchildren, Kathryn and her husband, Jake Francesconi and Amelia, James and Caroline Garstka.  His 2 brothers, Walter and his wife, Susan from West Springfield, MA and Andrew from Chicopee, MA. A cousin, Dorothy Kagan of East Longmeadow, MA, whom Bob always referred to as his sister and many nieces and nephews and their children whom he loved spending time with.

Bob will be missed by his many good friends, including the group called the Willimansett River Rats.  They grew up together and met for breakfast every Friday for the last 30 years.  Also, his retired University colleagues, the Romeo’s (retired old men eating out) who met for lunch monthly.  Bob also leaves his special friend and pet, Daisy.

Bob wishes that he had more time to spend with his family and friends and wishes all of you good health and happiness.

Family and friends may visit on Monday, December 13, 2021 from 2 to 4 pm at the Cierpial Memorial Funeral Home on 69 East St. in Chicopee. Bob’s burial will be private.  Memorial donations may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, 516 Carew St. Springfield, MA 01104.