Robert Stephen Cherry

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Dr. Robert Stephen Cherry, a devoted husband, stepfather, and esteemed research engineer. He departed this world on October 14, 2023, from complications related to Parkinson's disease with Lewy Body dementia. He was 68 years old.

He was the son of Edward Ferdinand Cherry and Jeanne Marie Sowa. Bob was born on July 7, 1955, in Englewood, New Jersey. He displayed an innate curiosity and passion for understanding the intricacies of the world from an early age. This curiosity led him to pursue a life of academic excellence. He earned his Ph.D in Engineering from Rice University and bachelor's and master's degrees in chemical engineering from MIT. He went on to contribute significantly to the field through his groundbreaking research, garnering patents, and writing numerous papers still cited by engineering firms and universities across the globe.

Robert was known for his innovative and pioneering work in CO2 sequestration and other projects related to nuclear energy. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of knowledge led him to contributions that will continue to influence and inspire generations of researchers. He also wrote an energy related thriller, a fiction novel incorporating portions of his research. (BADGER, by Robert S. Cherry)

Beyond professional accomplishments, Bob was a man of many dimensions. He had an insatiable love for nature and the beauty of the Idaho landscape. He was a hiker, birder, and outdoor enthusiast, finding joy in exploring the state he called home.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann; and his stepchildren, Daniel Bryce Rick, Morgan Wayne Rick, Charity Ann Follett, Jennifer Faith Kelly; and their children; four Cherry brothers, James Edward Cherry (Live Oak, Florida), David Paul Cherry (Plantation, Florida), Thomas Daniel Cherry (Cumming, Georgia), and Andrew Michael Cherry (Dublin, Georgia), survive him.  His memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched through his work and friendship.

A video celebration of life will be made available to those who wish to bid him a fond farewell. May his legacy continue to inspire and may his soul find eternal peace.

Bob always had a cat on his lap. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Snake River Animal Shelter in Idaho Falls, Idaho, or the Idaho Food Bank.