Robert Schlegel, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on August 27, 2026. He left behind a lifetime of accomplishment, devotion, family, and cherished memories.

Born on July 23, 1937, Robert was a bright man who valued education, hard work, family, and service. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and later received a Master of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering from Columbia University. He built a career as a nuclear engineer, continuing to work into his early 70s. His professional life reflected his intelligence, determination, and strong work ethic.

Robert's interests extended beyond academics and his career. During his freshman year at MIT, he played third base on the baseball team, combining his love of learning with his enjoyment of athletics. Throughout his life, he remained an avid sports fan, enjoying swim meets, following the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees, and taking particular pleasure in watching his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in their own sports and activities.

Robert married Elisabeth Sproehnle in Flushing, New York, and together they shared sixty-one years of marriage. Their life together took them from Flushing, NY to Silver Spring, MD, and finally to Ashburn, VA. They built a life filled with family, laughter, shared experiences, and countless memories. Robert was deeply devoted to Elisabeth, and her passing left him widowed after more than six decades of marriage and companionship.

Robert was the proud father of two daughters, Laura (Jimmy) Schwee and Karen (Bruce) McCallon. He was blessed with five grandchildren—Justin (Ashley), Matthew (Kari), Brandon (Madison), Suzanne (Ben), and Jenna—and thirteen great-grandchildren. His family was his greatest source of pride and joy. He was a constant and loving presence in their lives, offering encouragement, guidance, and support. He treasured the time he spent with his family, and the love he shared with them will continue through generations to come.

Those who knew Robert will remember not only his accomplishments, but also the personality and everyday habits that made him uniquely himself. He had a dry sense of humor and enjoyed life's simple pleasures, including malted milkshakes, Ledo pizza, completing Sudoku puzzles, and reading the Washington Post every morning while eating Rice Krispies. He enjoyed traveling to Atlantic City with Elisabeth, especially watching her play the penny slot machines. He was a devout Christian, and his faith was an important and enduring part of his life.

Robert's life was defined by dedication—to his profession, his family, his faith, and the people he loved. He was intelligent and hardworking, but perhaps his greatest legacy is the love and steadfast support he gave to his family. He always encouraged his children, celebrated his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and took pride in their accomplishments.

He will be deeply missed by his daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends. Robert's memory will remain a lasting part of the family he loved so dearly. His legacy of love, devotion, perseverance, and family will live on through the generations who knew and loved him.