Robert John "Arch" Archibald

June 8, 1943 – March 16, 2026

Robert John Archibald, affectionately known to all as “Arch,” passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026. A man of precision, service, and deep devotion to his family, Arch leaves behind a legacy defined by his mechanical brilliance and his unwavering strength.

A LIFE IN MOTION Born in Chicago on June 8, 1943, Arch grew up in Norwood Park and was a proud graduate of the Taft High School Class of 1960. From his earliest years, Arch was driven by a passion for how things worked. As a teenager, he didn't just drive cars; he built them. An accomplished engine mechanic, he and his friends spent their youth at the quarter-mile drag strips of Union Grove and Oswego, pushing their "hot rods" to the limit.

SERVICE AND COUNTRY In 1962, facing his draft notice, Arch took his future into his own hands. Choosing to volunteer for a four-year enlistment in the U.S. Air Force rather than wait for the Army induction, his expertise as a mechanic became his greatest asset. Arch served as one of a select group of mechanics responsible for the maintenance and repair of A-1E aircraft. He completed his tour in Southeast Asia and was honorably discharged as an E-4 at Travis AFB, California, on August 3, 1966. Though he returned home to a country that did not yet fully appreciate the sacrifices of its Vietnam Veterans, Arch carried his service with quiet dignity.

ARCHITECTURE AND CAREER Upon returning to civilian life, Arch pursued higher education with the same focus he applied to engines. He attended the University of Illinois (UIC) and graduated from Roosevelt University with a degree in Architecture and Design. He worked in the architectural field until 1977, when his lifelong love for automobiles drew him back to the industry, transitioning into a successful career in auto sales.

FAMILY AND LEGACY While he could fix any engine or design any structure, Arch’s greatest pride was his family. He was the beloved husband of Julie May Archibald (née Vittner) and the cherished father of Lisa Archibald, Heather (Robert) Marzullo, and Chad Archibald. To his grandsons, Jack Krolak, Michael Marzullo, and Matthew Marzullo, he was simply the best “Papa” and “Pops.”

Arch was preceded in death by his father, John Francis Archibald, and his mother, Olga Archibald (née Vrablik). He remains a fond brother to his sister, Joanne (the late Joseph) Nykaza, a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, a dear cousin, and a respected friend, colleague, and mentor to all who knew him.

SERVICE INFORMATION A Celebration of Life will occur on Sunday, May 3, 2026 from 1pm-3pm at Gusto of Glenview, 1834 Glenview Rd, Glenview, IL 60025.

MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Arch’s honor to the following organizations, or to any cause that honors his spirit:

● American Cancer Society

● St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

● Wounded Warrior Project

The family invites you to share your fondest memories and stories of Arch on this memorial page as we celebrate a life truly well-lived.