Robert Anthony Koyak, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle and esteemed academic, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025. He was a longtime resident of Salinas, California, where he built a life centered on family and his education profession. Bob was born in Spring Valley, Illinois and was a 1975 graduate of Hall High School.  He continued his education at Illinois State University and later earned a master’s degree and PhD in Mathematics at the University of California, Berkeley in 1985. Bob led an accomplished and impactful life. As a mathematics professor, Bob dedicated his expertise to instruction and research at Johns Hopkins University and more recently at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.

Having been an avid runner, Bob ran numerous marathons. He will best be remembered for his sharp intellect, wry humor, quiet strength, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. He touched the lives of many through his professional contributions and personal kindness, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Bob was deeply devoted to his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rita Rojas-Koyak, and their cherished daughter, Eva, both of whom were the center of his world. He is also survived by his mother, Joyce (Koyak) Cruz; his stepfather, Anthony Cruz; his brother, Michael Koyak (Margie Barto); his sisters, Joan (Koyak) Pacifico (Frank) and Kaye Koyak-Wahl (Tim) and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Anthony Koyak.

A private memorial service will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bob’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.