Obituary of Robert J. Dretar

Robert (Bob) James Dretar, 82, of Vestal, NY and formerly of Taylor and Clarks Summit, PA, passed away Friday morning, December 20, 2024, at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital. He was predeceased by his parents, Irene and Demetro George Dretar. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carolee Dretar; two daughters, Marybeth (Thomas) D'Onofrio, Endicott, NY, and Nicole (Scott) Haines, Naples, FL; and two grandchildren, Adrianna and Thomas D'Onofrio. Robert graduated from Taylor High School in 1960 and received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Bucknell University in 1964 where he was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. He also received a Master of Science in Management Sciences from the State University of New York at Binghamton in 1969. Prior to his retirement, he was a program manager at IBM/Loral/Lockheed Martin, Owego, NY for 35 years where he received many accolades and awards. Robert immensely enjoyed his career and was especially proud of working on the Space Shuttle mission computer program. He subsequently continued his career for several additional years at Innovation Associates, Johnson City, NY. Robert was a devoted Bucknell Bison, Boston Red Sox, and Philadelphia Eagles fan. He was an advocate for education, with a passion for learning, reading, and history. He was a member of St. Joseph's Church, Endicott, NY, and a former usher. The family especially thanks Robert's good friend Chris Burns for his kindness and support. Additionally, the family expresses appreciation to Robert's caregivers for their help and compassion. A private Funeral Mass will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be at St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Old Forge, PA. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to Broome County Office for Aging or Meals on Wheels of Western Broome.