Robert R. “Bob” Jurick

Robert R. Jurick of Fairborn, Ohio, lived a full life marked by curiosity, boundless energy, and a lasting commitment to his family, his community, and the natural world.

Born April 28, 1938, in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, to Alma James and Rudolph “Rudy” Jurick, Bob grew up with his younger sister, Alma “Sis” Lane. Twelve years after Bob’s birth, his little brother, Kenneth “Kenny” Jurick, joined the family. Despite the years and miles between them, the three remained close, chatting regularly and sharing a lifelong bond.

Bob spent his early years balancing school, odd jobs, and caddying. He graduated from Carnegie Tech in 1958 and continued his studies in mathematics and engineering, earning a doctorate in mathematics education from Ohio State University in 1972. His early teaching career included Shady Side Academy in Pittsburgh and Salmon River in upstate New York. Following four years of service in the United States Air Force, he spent the remainder of his professional career at the computer center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

An educator at heart, “Dr. J,” as he was affectionately known, taught at many local colleges. Early in his career, he also devoted a year to teaching mathematics at Dunbar High School. Sharing his knowledge and helping others learn were enduring parts of his life.

Bob spent much of his life outdoors. As his focus shifted from computers to conservation, he brought the same curiosity and energy to protecting the natural world. A founding member of B-W Greenway Community Land Trust, he served as president and executive director and helped guide its work for decades. His stewardship helped preserve and restore wetlands, woodlands, and other natural places in our community. His contributions were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Partners for the Environment in 2018 and Clark County’s Cooperator of the Year award in 2020.

While his professional and community accomplishments were many, his family and dear friends will remember Bob most for his dedication and love. He always made time to throw a ball, play a round, have a lunch, enjoy a visit, or tell a Jasper story. His many thoughtful, handwritten notes to family members and friends will remain lasting reminders of his care and the attention he gave to each of them.

In his early twenties, an accident brought Bob to the hospital, where he met Beverly, the love of his life for more than 63 years. Together, they raised three children—Steve, Marianne, and Greg. Their family grew to include grandchildren Tony, Michelle, Sydney, and Perry, and great-grandchildren Alex, Carson, Ozzy, Danni, Quinn, Isabella, and Xavier. Throughout those generations, Bob’s love, stories, and example will always be part of the family he cherished.

He will also be remembered by his many friends and the students and colleagues whose lives he touched. Bob lived life to the fullest, gave generously of his time and knowledge, and made a difference for many.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to B-W Greenway Community Land Trust in honor of Bob’s lifelong commitment to conservation.