Robert A. Urban, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and dedicated engineer, passed away October 5, 2024 at the age of 76. Born on December 8, 1947, in Jackson, Michigan, to Theodore and Ann Marie Urban, Robert lived a life characterized by passion for both his family and career.

Robert's professional journey began after he graduated from Michigan Technological University in 1971 with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering, specializing in machine control and power options. His career spanned over five decades, during which he worked on numerous significant projects in electrical engineering.

Robert's growing expertise and versatility took him across the country, from Michigan to Colorado, Hawaii, and finally to Florida, working for numerous prominent companies. His roles ranged from Electrical Start-up Engineer to Construction Manager and beyond.  Robert also became known for his unwavering professional integrity, even if it meant being a solitary voice of dissent.

Robert's most impactful work came in the latter part of his career. From 1996 until 2024, Robert worked at the South Florida Water Management District, becoming the principal electrical engineer. In this role, he was instrumental in designing and overseeing innumerable pump stations, storm water treatment areas, manatee protection systems, and other various large and small projects integral to the water safety and security of the communities and ecosystems of south Florida. His work in water management not only showcased his engineering prowess and leadership but also reflected his commitment to environmental conservation.

Beyond his professional life, Robert was a devoted family man. He met his beloved wife, DeAne Urban, while cross-country skiing in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where they later married in an outdoor ceremony. Together, they raised two children, Jesse and Regina, creating a loving and supportive home.

Robert's "can-do" attitude extended beyond his professional life and exemplified the American spirit. At home, he took on challenging projects that others even thought impossible. Whether it was building specialized equipment to install his own seawall, driving a giant fiberglass swimming pool across the state on a boat trailer, or replacing the home HVAC system, Robert was a great role model for what is possible. His kids were especially inspired and always supported in their own unique projects. Early on, Robert would help his son Jesse, along with daughter Regina, build such things as a personal elevator, robotic back scratcher, giant fort, or flats boat. Then later, he would encourage other endeavors, whether Regina starring in the high school choir or Jesse building a river filtration system for science fair.

Robert loved the outdoors and shared this with his family. They went rock hunting in New Mexico, hiking in North Carolina mountains, and exploring South Florida marshes. His love for fishing was a constant throughout his life, from his boyhood days on Michigan waterways to his later years on the coasts of Florida. His passion for the outdoors also cultivated a love of nature in his children.

In his later years, Robert found immense joy in his role as a grandfather. He doted on his grandson Anton and granddaughter Zula, who will deeply miss their beloved grandfather. Robert's love, wisdom, and steadfast spirit will continue to inspire his children and grandchildren into the future.

In addition to children and grandchildren, Robert is survived by his loving sister Sue Behncke.  He was preceded in death by his beloved wife DeAne, brother Ted, and parents Theodore and Ann Marie.