Remembering a Community Leader: Robert ‘Bobby Mike’ Koronka

News Summary

The Bryan community gathers to honor the life of Robert ‘Bobby Mike’ Koronka, a dedicated family man and business owner who passed away at the age of 77. Known for his love of music and community service, Robert’s legacy will live on through his family and numerous contributions to the local area. The heartfelt services reflect the impact he made over his lifetime, celebrating his commitment to family, friends, and the Brazos Valley.

Remembering Robert “Bobby Mike” Koronka: A Life of Family, Service, and Community Impact

In Bryan, Texas, the community is coming together to celebrate the life of Robert Michael Koronka, who passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 77. Surrounded by his loved ones, Robert, affectionately known as “Bobby Mike,” left behind a legacy filled with love, dedication, and an unmistakable passion for his work and family.

A Journey from Navasota to Bryan

Born to Louis and Jean Koronka in the small town of Navasota, Texas, Robert began his educational journey in the same quaint surroundings before his family moved to Bryan, where he truly found his home. A proud graduate of Stephen F. Austin High School, class of 1966, he was well-known for his talent in the school band, showcasing his childhood love for music.

After high school, Robert took a giant leap by enrolling at Texas A&M University. Always the industrious spirit, he worked his way through college, earning a Marketing degree in 1971. During this time, he worked as a dental laboratory technician, a role that sparked his ambition to start his very own business one day.

A Love Story and Lifelong Partnership

It was in a bustling pizza shop where Robert met his soulmate, Gloria Lewis. A friend and classmate, Candy Parker, played Cupid, introducing them to each other. It was love at first sight for Robert, and soon he was marrying Gloria while still pursuing his studies. Their love blossomed over the years, culminating in a beautiful union that lasted an incredible 57 years.

Together, they took a leap of faith and founded the Koronka Dental Laboratory. For more than 50 years, this family-run business became a staple in the Brazos Valley, serving local residents while Robert poured his heart into providing exceptional care and service.

A Man of Dedication and Family Values

Robert was not just an exceptional businessman; he was also a loving father to three wonderful daughters: Amy, Holly, and Karen. He dreamt of building a home that would create lasting memories for his family, and it was in the countryside that he fulfilled that dream. Robert cherished being a grandfather and great-grandfather, always looking forward to hosting family gatherings during holidays at the ranch house.

His family dynamics extended beyond his immediate relatives. Robert believed in treating his staff like family. Many were family members or students he employed to help ease their financial burdens while chasing their dreams in college.

A Community and Family Remembered

Robert is preceded in death by his devoted parents, Louis and Jean Koronka Gray. His legacy lives on through his wife, Gloria, and their three daughters, along with a yard full of grandchildren: Del Lange Jr., Ashley Lange Osborn, Amber Lange, Zoe Mazzare, Brazos Mazzare, Brooks Mazzare, Parker Tadlock, and Gabby Tadlock. The family is also blessed with seven great-grandchildren and a wealth of friends and family.

Celebrating Robert’s Life

On March 7, 2025, family and friends gathered at Memorial Funeral Chapel in Bryan for a lovely visitation. The following day, a heartfelt funeral Mass was held at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church in Anderson. The family expressed their gratitude for the exceptional care and support from Robert’s care team at MD Anderson during his final months, a testament to the love they shared with him and the community.

Robert “Bobby Mike” Koronka may have departed this world, but his spirit of service, dedication, and love for family and community will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a true treasure in the Bryan community, and he will be deeply missed.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Bryan Community Mourns the Loss of Robert ‘Bobby Mike’ Koronka

Additional Resources

• Brazos County Tribune
• Wikipedia: Robert Michael Koronka
• MKD Funeral Home Obituaries
• Google Search: Robert Michael Koronka
• Bryan ISD Obituaries
• Google Scholar: Robert Michael Koronka
• Legacy Obituaries
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Robert Michael Koronka
• Newspaper Archive: Brazos County Obituaries
• Google News: Robert Michael Koronka