Robert Craig Kociencki, 65, of Columbia, passed away at his home on June 7th, 2023. He was born in Newton on July 13th, 1957 to Harry and Joan Louise (Havenstein) Kociencki.
He was a well known and appreciated owner/operator of American Automotive in Fredon. He was a sports fan who loved watching softball, especially when his daughter Mary Elizabeth was playing. He attended all of her games, home and away. His favorite football team was the New York Jets. He loved auto body restoration, golfing, beach vacations and old cars. He especially loved his 1964 Corvair convertible. He enjoyed art and drawing. Music was a passion, including the bands Kiss, Mercy Me, ACDC. He also played bass in a Christian rock band, Alter Egos.
He is survived by his daughter Mary Elizabeth and granddaughters Autumn and Teagan Bird; his stepson Brian Seaman; two sisters, Carol Ramsey and husband Fred; Kathy Vaill and husband Brad; nephews Zachary Ramsey and Ryan Matthes; and nieces Taylor Schoonmaker and Brittany DeDios; also four greatnieces.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Bob’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.