Robert W. O’Kunewicz of Southampton died at his home on January 12, following a long illness. He was 82.
“Okey,” as he was known by most, was born on April 17, 1932, at Southampton Hospital to Edward and Greta O’Kunewicz, immigrants who met on the ship that brought them to this country. He graduated from Southampton High School, where he was a member of the track team. Upon graduation in 1951, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. During his four years as a medical corpsman, he served tours of duty in England and Texas.
He married Marianne Moylan in 1953. They lived in Sag Harbor until 1959, when they settled permanently in the Southampton home where they would raise their family and live out their lives. A union plumber for 50 years, Mr. O’Kunewicz also worked at Northrop Grumman Corp. for 10 years. In his spare time, he was a passionate surfcaster, boater and golfer.
He is survived by a daughter, Kerrie of Connecticut; two sons, Robert and wife Laurie of Sag Harbor, and Christopher of Southampton; and two grandchildren, Robert and Kellie O’Kunewicz of Southampton. He is also survived by a sister, Carol Robinson.
A memorial service was held at Brockett Funeral Home, followed by burial with military honors at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Southampton on January 16. Memorial donations may be made to Olde Towne Animal Hospital, 380 County Road 39A, Southampton, NY 11968, or Doctors Without Borders, www.doctorswithoutborders.org.