Obituary of Robert J. Gugenberger

Robert J. Gugenberger, 44. Friends and family mourn the loss of a great leader, businessman and friend as Robert J. Gugenberger, 44, of Gloversville was suddenly taken from us on Sunday, August 13, 2006. Robert was a dedicated and loving father, brother, son, fiancée and friend, who lived life to the fullest and shared with others his love for truth, honesty, and culture. Always the consummate professional, Robert proudly served the City of Gloversville and its citizens for 20 years as a highly decorated and dedicated police officer, deserving of, and achieving the rank of Captain. Robert derived his personal reward from the knowledge that he made a difference in the lives of others. As a law enforcement officer, Robert often worked countless hours to improve his trade and craft, not for personal benefit or gain, but with the satisfaction that he could truly improve the lives of those around him. Robert?s dedication to the law, his loved ones, and the citizens of the community was further demonstrated, as upon retirement, he continued his service to the law enforcement community as Town Justice for the Town of Johnstown. He was a devoted Master of the martial arts, and shared his techniques, knowledge, and values as a Sensei to students of all ages at his Gloversville Kenpo Studio. Robert developed and taught several innovative techniques, especially designed for his law enforcement colleagues, once again, selflessly sharing his knowledge for the safety of others. As a lover of fine wine and food, Robert was a devotee of the culinary arts. He took great pride in his ability to prepare great meals, yet he was too humble to claim any expertise and bowed to several of his favorite local chefs. Robert recently started Northend Light Construction Company, wherein he took extreme pride in crafting elaborate log homes. In this, as with all his endeavors, he was always attempting to improve his product. Now, these structures will stand forever as a legacy to his craftsmanship. Beyond this list of eclectic interests and accomplishments, Robert?s ultimate pride was squarely and firmly planted on his unconditional love of his family. He often spoke of his pride in his father, and credited his dad for passing on to him his knowledge of building construction. His love for his mother was strong, as was his personal drive to make her proud. He was also strongly devoted to his brothers and sisters who loved him and depended on him, and to his fiancée, Audrey Carlson, who with the help of his daughter Kayla, dragged him into the world of theater and art. Most of all, Robert loved his daughter Kayla. He never missed an opportunity to share in her accomplishments and aspirations, or to relate her successes to all who would listen. Robert is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Graves Gugenberger, his daughter Kayla Gugenberger, and his fiancée Audrey Carlson, all of Gloversville. He is also survived by his brothers Richard L. Charlene Gugenberger, of Mayfield, and Daniel R. Gugenberger, and his companion Barbara Denure, of Rockwood, Florida. Robert is also survived by his sisters Judy Lyn Michael Elmendorf of Meco, Jill M. Terry Bell of Gloversville, and Jan S. Eric Ackernecht, of Gloversville. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. A visitation for Robert will be held from 4-6 Friday August 18, 2006 at the Kobuskie-Konik Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville. Following the visitation will be a memorial service at the funeral home at 6 pm. where family and friends will be invited to share memories and fellowship.