Robert D. Gahl "Bob"

September 22, 1942 - November 11, 2023

Bob was born in Takoma Park, Maryland on September 22, 1942, to Lois Emily Brauer and Daniel Reinhold Gahl, who worked at the National Archives in Washington, DC. The family moved to Valparaiso, Indiana when his father took a teaching position at Valparaiso University, and where he spent his childhood with his brother, Tom, nurturing his love of basketball and spending summers with the Brauer clan at Ridinger Lake and watching baseball at the Wrigley Field in Chicago. Bob pursued his love of basketball at Wabash College, then went for his Master’s Degree in Applied Math at Purdue University and his PhD in Applied Math at the University of Nebraska. He moved back to the Washington, DC area to get his Applied Scientist Degree in Operations Research at George Washington University.

Bob was an accomplished professional, dedicated to his work as a software developer, systems and software engineer for over forty years. He held positions at defense contractors such as McDonnell Douglas Inc and Delex Systems, and retired from General Dynamics Corporation, collaborating with the Department of Energy, NATO, Marines, and US Army.

He was a supportive husband to Mae and a devoted, loving father to his children Rob, Liz and Therese; the family enjoyed the rich cultural life in Washington DC. He traveled to Europe and Asia with a 9-month old and 2-year old Rob. He was always present for Rob’s piano performances as well as Liz and Therese’s ballet performances at the Kennedy Center, Warner Theater and other local venues. He was a proud father at graduations. He became a proud grandfather to Rob and Emily’s children Genevieve, Sophia and Agnes. He was thrilled to walk his two daughters down the aisle, first at Liz and Florent’s wedding in Paris, France and then at Therese and Jacob’s wedding in Alexandria, Virginia.

Bob’s unwavering dedication extended to his community, including volunteering at a food pantry and Christ House. He also volunteered as a Cub Scout Den Leader of Rob’s group at St. Thomas More School. An active member of the St. Anthony of Padua Parish, he was a Knights of Columbus Grand Knight and was committed to the Pro-Life work of the Parish over the years. At retirement, he walked to daily Mass, read books and enjoyed watching sports and EWTN on TV.

On November 11, 2023, Bob began his eternal life. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who will be dearly missed.

A visitation for Robert will be held Monday, November 20, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM & 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at the Robert E. Evans Funeral Home 16000 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715.

A Mass of Christian burial will occur Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Ascension Catholic Church, 12700 Lanham Severn Rd, Bowie, MD 20720.

The graveside service will follow the Mass in Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Rd, Clinton, MD 20735.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.robertevansfuneralhome.com for the Gahl family.