Robert Edward Eichler

After 80 full years, Robert Edward Eichler passed away on March 4, 2026, on his 80th birthday, in Mesa, Arizona. He was Chicago native, who spent the last 14 years of his life enjoying the Arizona sun.

Known as “Bob”, “U.B.”, “Uncle Bob”, “Ike” or “Alibi Ike” by his many friends and family members, he had a gruff exterior that hid a heart of gold. He deeply loved his many nieces and nephews and their children, saving every Christmas card, birthday or graduation invitation, and thank you note he received. A talented athlete in his youth (baseball, hockey), Bob was a lifelong sports fan, with a particular affinity for all Chicago Teams. Sgt. Eichler was a combat veteran, and Purple Heart recipient, serving with the First Air Cavalry in Vietnam.

He was preceded in death by both parents (Mary and Thomas), brothers Tom (“Buzzy”), Donny, David, sister Garnet, nephew Michael, and his beloved dog Dazy. He is survived by his brothers Bill and Dennis, sister Karen, son Chuck, and daughter Rachel, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bob will be laid to rest in the National Memorial Cemetery, in Phoenix, Arizona.

Friends and family will gather to honor his memory at luncheons in Arizona and Chicago.