Robert Anton Kopecky, 82

Robert Anton Kopecky, 82, of Palatine, IL, passed away July, 8, 2012 at Alexian Brothers Medical Center.

Robert fondly known as Bob was born on August 5, 1929 to Frederick and Anna, nee Novy Kopecky of Cicero. Bob attended Morton High School in Cicero and was a proud member of the Morton Music Makers playing the clarinet. He attended the Illinois Institute of Technology and graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in ornamental horticulture.

Starting in June 1951, Bob spent two years serving in the Korean War at the Fitzsimons Army Hospital in Aurora, CO dutifully working in tuberculosis research. He became a member of the American Legion Cicero Post 96 started by his uncles and father, Fred Kopecky.

His first job as floral designer at Plagge Flowers in Sept. 1953 was life changing. It was not only the beginning of his 43 year career in the floral industry it is also where he met the love of his life, Kay Charlene Seltzer. In 1964, Bob worked for Nelson's Flowers in Palatine. He then opened his own flower shop, the Nelsons' Bo-Kay in 1971 and the rest is history. All his customers, because of his joy and passion for flowers, loved Bob. He understood the significance of his work and what flowers meant in his customer's lives. He often fondly remembered the people, the event and the flowers. Bob was a beloved mentor to all he employed and everyone in the shop was "family." Bob honorably served on the board of the Illinois State Floral Association, a board member of the F.T.D. District Five A and B and was a member of Telaflora. Both Bob and Kay traveled around the country doing floral designs flowers shows for other florists.

Locally, he served as a member of the Plum Grove Garden Club, Palatine Kiwanis, and the Palatine Historical Society. He also attended the Salem United Methodist Church in Barrington, IL. Bob loved sharing his garden, which was his passion. It is a colorful, beautiful retreat where he could often be found potting, planting, arranging and enjoying the unique coleus, abundant impatiens, and vibrant flowers and plants.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kay Charlene Kopecky, nee Seltzer, with whom they just celebrated 47 years of marriage; his sons Leonard (Jennifer) Kopecky of Palatine, IL and Will (Shannon) Kopecky of Evanston, IL; grandchildren, Anna, Austin, Adylynn and Ashley; and dear nieces, nephews and cousins. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Fredrick and Anna Kopecky; and his dear sister Lorraine Kopecky.

A visitation will be held from 3 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 11, 2012 at Ahlgrim Family Funeral Home , 201 N. Northwest Hwy., Palatine, IL. He will lie in state from 11:30 a.m. until time of service at 1 p.m. at Salem United Methodist Church, 115 W. Lincoln Ave., Barrington, IL Thursday.

Flowers are appreciated and welcome. Monetary donations may be made to the Salem United Methodist Church flower fund, 115 W. Lincoln Ave., Barrington, IL 60010. For info. 847-358-7411