News Summary
On February 26, 2025, Bryan, Texas, paid tribute to Robert ‘Bobby Mike’ Koronka, a revered local entrepreneur and family man who passed away at 77. Remembered for his hard work and dedication, Bobby Mike leaves behind a legacy of love and community service. His contributions to the Koronka Dental Laboratory and his familial bonds exemplify a life well-lived. A visitation and funeral mass will honor him on March 7 and 8, 2025, respectively.
Bryan Community in Mourning: Remembering Robert “Bobby Mike” Koronka
February 26, 2025, marks a profoundly sad day for Bryan, Texas, as the community comes together to mourn the passing of a beloved local figure, Robert Michael Koronka, affectionately known as Bobby Mike. The 77-year-old entrepreneur and family man left this world surrounded by his loving family, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love.
A Life Rich in Experiences
Bobby Mike was born to Louis and Jean Koronka in the charming town of Navasota, Texas. His early schooling was right there in Navasota, but as a teenager, he made the move to Bryan, where he would eventually create a life full of memories and accomplishments. Bobby Mike graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1966 and was not just a student; he was also a noted member of the school band, showcasing his commitment to both academics and the arts.
After high school, Bobby Mike put in the hard yards to attend Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Marketing in 1971. His entrepreneurial journey began while he worked as a dental laboratory technician during college. This experience was a significant turning point that sparked his desire to become a business owner.
A Loving Marriage and Family Man
It was during his college years that Bobby Mike met the love of his life, Gloria Lewis, at a local pizza shop where a mutual friend introduced them. Their love story blossomed, and they married while still in school, embarking on a journey that would see them celebrate an impressive 57 years of marriage. Together, they had three wonderful daughters: Amy, Holly, and Karen, who brought immense joy and fulfillment to their family life.
Bobby Mike co-founded the Koronka Dental Laboratory in Bryan, which became a cornerstone of the local community for over half a century. Known for his exemplary work ethic, he always treated his staff like family, often hiring family members and students. His friendly interactions with dental offices and employees made him a well-respected figure in the dental community, leaving a mark that will not be forgotten.
Creating a Home and Expanding Family
Outside of work, Bobby Mike was a dedicated family man who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. He built a picturesque home in the country, a place where family gatherings blossomed into joyous celebrations during holidays and special occasions. He later took on the revered roles of grandfather and great-grandfather, relishing every new family member that arrived. His heart was full with grandchildren including Del Lange Jr., Ashley Lange Osborn, Amber Lange, Zoe Mazzare, Brazos Mazzare, Brooks Mazzare, Parker Tadlock, Gabby Tadlock, and seven great-grandchildren who all adored him deeply.
Farewell and Legacy
Bobby Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria, their daughters, and numerous family members, including his brother, Louis Stanley Koronka, and sister-in-law, Bernadette. He is preceded in death by his parents, but his spirit lives on through the profound impact he made in the lives he touched.
A visitation for Bobby Mike is scheduled for March 7, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Chapel in Bryan. A funeral Mass will follow on March 8, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church in Anderson, Texas. The family has expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated care team at MD Anderson who provided support during Bobby Mike’s final months.
As Bryan comes together to remember Robert “Bobby Mike” Koronka, his family and friends are united in celebrating a life well-lived, a loving family, and a business that supported and enriched the community for generations.
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Additional Resources
- BC Tribune: Robert Bobby Mike Koronka Obituary
- Wikipedia: Robert Michael Koronka
- MKD Funeral Home: Robert G. Gross Jr. Obituary
- Google Search: Robert Michael Koronka
- Bryan College Station Eagle: Robert Koronka Obituary
- Google Scholar: Robert Michael Koronka
- KBTX News: Robert Bobby Mike Koronka Passes Away
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Robert Michael Koronka
- Legacy.com: Robert Koronka Obituary
- Google News: Robert Michael Koronka
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