Robert (Bob) J. Zahradnik, Architect, Land Planner, Mentor, Loving Husband, Brother, Uncle and Friend died peacefully after an extended illness on November 11, 2023. He was born on February 7, 1954 to Michael S. and Elizabeth (Kurta) Zahradnik and grew up in Bethel Park, PA. Bob was a devout Catholic. He attended Bethel Park Senior High School where he met the love-of-his-life and future wife Carrie Proie.
Bob’s father recognized his passion for Architecture at an early age. Michael while working for ALCOA’s private jet services, arranged for Bob to be on a flight with their corporate Architects: “Deeter, Ritchey, Sipple & Associates” Pittsburgh, PA. Bob was Hooked! He interned with them over the summer before college. He selected the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, College of DAA where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture in 1978.
While studying Architecture, Bob relocated to Yalaha, FLA where his future In-Laws purchased land on Lake Harris for a residential development known as “Waterwood”.
In 1991, Waterwood Development earned a Regional Award for Planning and Growth Management. Bob was an exceptionally talented Architect. His work was broad and diverse, including Land planning, hospitality, offices, and healthcare. He was also involved with Lake County Tourist Development Council 1989 – 2008. In 2009 Bob was Awarded in Appreciation for his many hours of volunteer work for Lake County and its Citizens.
Bob’s legacy will live on in Leesburg and the lake area communities.
His many interests included traveling with Carrie, photography, golf, and tennis.
Bob also loved his home town football team – The Pittsburgh Steelers.. But also his UC Bearcats, and UFL Gators.
Bob leaves behind an adoring family, he will be missed dearly. He is preceded in death by his parents, Michael S. & Elizabeth Zahradnik, His beloved wife of 36 years Carrie, his brother Jerry, sister Rose, sister-in-law Bea, cherished nephew Matthew, in-laws Frank and Iris Proie as well as numerous Aunts and Uncles.
He is survived by his siblings Michael, Monica (Calvin), Amy (Bill), and Betsy.
Brother-in-law Ron, nephew Clayton, sister-in-law Corrine, sister-in-law Paulette Cantwell, (Katie, John Kyle, Alex), sister-in-law Deidre (Kim) Ray, (Madison, Logan), Kathy Cantwell, and many cousins.
“When an Architect is asked what his best building is, he usually answers, “THE NEXT ONE”” Emilio Ambasz (1943 -2018)
VISITATION
Family and friends will be received Saturday December 9, 2023 at Page-Theus Funeral Home,
914 W. Main Street Leesburg, FL. From 11:00am – 1:00pm
SERVICES
Funeral services, Mass of Catholic Burial to be held at the Chapel of Page-Theus Funeral Home. Saturday December 9th at 1:00pm.
INTERMENT
Immediately following Mass at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, Leesburg, Fl. 1901 County Road 25-A, Leesburg, FL.
MEMORIALS
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests Memorial contributions to: Cornerstone Hospice Foundation serving Lake Sumter 2445 Lane Park Rd., Tavares, FL 32778 (352) 742-6819.
