It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Lee Urchike, 84, of Chandler, Arizona, who passed away on April 23, 2026. Born on June 20, 1941, in Flint, Michigan, to Audrey and Ella (Adelblue) Urchike, Robert lived a full and meaningful life marked by dedication to family, education, and service to others.
Robert graduated from Beecher High School in Michigan before continuing his education at Central Michigan University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education. His commitment to learning did not end there, as he later obtained a master’s degree in secondary education from Arizona State University. These accomplishments reflected not only his personal drive but also his lifelong belief in the power of education to shape lives.
On August 17, 1963, Robert married Patricia Kay Terry, beginning a loving partnership that endured through decades of shared experiences, challenges, and joys. Together, they built a family rooted in love and support.
Robert devoted over 30 years of his life to teaching and coaching, serving at Beecher High School in Michigan and Marcos de Niza High School in Arizona. He influenced countless students and athletes, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship, discipline, and encouragement. Beyond the classroom and sports field, he was also a professional bass fisherman, reflecting his passion for patience, skill, and the outdoors.
He was a deeply loved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His family remembers him not only for his accomplishments, but for the love he gave so freely and the steady presence he provided throughout their lives. He will be missed more than words can fully express, but his memory will continue to live on through the generations he helped shape.
Robert is survived by his siblings William (Linda) Urchike and Patricia Williams; his daughters Pam Neumann and Lori Urchike; his grandchildren Brent (Britney) Urchike, Kayla Urchike, Anna Neumann, and Julia Neumann; and his great-grandchildren Blake Urchike, Cayden Urchike, Riley Malinski, and Norah Bass.
A visitation will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tempe Mortuary. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at 12:00 p.m. at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
Robert’s legacy of education, kindness, and devotion to family will be remembered always.