Robert Donal Sachs

Robert (Bob) Donal Sachs, aged 61, of Alexandria, VA passed away on May 4, 2022 at his home surrounded by his family. Bob was born on February 10, 1961, in Hanover, New Hampshire in the deep New England winter. He was the sixth and the youngest child of the late Jeanne O’Sullivan Sachs and Ernest Sachs Jr. Bob spent his youth—and his life entire life—loving the outdoors, skiing, ski jumping, cycling, and hiking. His first foray on skis was at Oak Hill in Hanover, before he could walk, and sporting a harness held by an older sibling situated within their snowplow, making his way down the hill with a huge grin on his face.

In 1986, he married Victoria (Tori) Velkoff and thus began their great adventure. Together they raised two wonderful children, traveled around the world, and genuinely loved being together. They lit up every time they saw each other.

Bob was a person who found joy in everything. He had an infectious smile and a desire to make everyone feel welcome and loved. He was outgoing and quick to make friends. Bob was passionate about his family and friends, and they were delighted to be around him and have him in their presence. Bob’s lifelong passion for skiing and hiking led him to head outside and embrace the ground, sun, and sky whenever he was able. Bob wore out several family members and friends as he raced up mountains. Yet, he would always stop and generously provide practical tips for a hike to anyone he was with. He was a proud Adirondack 46er finishing his last peak in 2015. He also was an avid astronomer and was always happy to bring out his telescope and show people the wonders of the universe. Bob remained cheerful throughout his illness and spent his last few months happily visiting and laughing with family and friends.

In 1984, Bob graduated from Saint Lawrence University with a degree in Geology. While at St. Lawrence, he made several lifelong friends. Bob channeled his love of the outdoors into his career, first at the U.S. Geological Service and later at the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. For the last 31 years, Bob worked at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Bob was respected and loved by colleagues across EPA at every stage of his career. He was a model civil servant who was passionate about making environmental science accessible to the public. He often shared stories from his own life, opening the door for colleagues to be equally vulnerable, creating a workplace full of genuine friendship.

Bob is survived by his wife of 35 years, Tori Velkoff and their children Xan and Na’ava Velkoff; his siblings, Rusty Sachs, Ann Sachs, Patricia (Pascha) Sachs Chess; in-laws, Chris Velkoff, Dee Velkoff, Nick Velkoff, Cindy Velkoff, Marlene Sachs, Sue Sachs, Kay Sachs, and Roger Morgan; as well as multitude of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Preceding Bob in death were his brothers Chris Sachs and Jim Sachs.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on May 20, 2022 at 3:00 PM at Demaine Funeral Home in Old Town Alexandria.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Adirondack 46er organization Donation – Adirondack 46ers (adk46er.org) or the ADK Mountain Club Donate | Adirondack Mountain Club (adk.org).