Robert N. Paklaian

Robert (“Bob”) N. Paklaian passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, surrounded by loved ones. Bob was known for his sharp wit, his love of literature and sports, his classical guitar, and quiet, steadfast strength. Those who knew him often remarked on his extraordinary integrity, deep moral compass, and effortless humor. He touched many lives, and though many of his contemporaries have since passed, the warmth of his friendships and the impact of his character remain enduring.

Born in 1936 to loving Armenian immigrant parents from Yozgat, Turkey, Bob was a proud first-generation American. He grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where he and his sister Caroline helped their parents run the family’s dry-cleaning business, London Cleaners. He was surrounded by a tight-knit community and remained close to his sister and cousins, among them Jeanette, Arlene, and Linda. His family embodied the American dream: though his parents had limited formal education, both Bob and his sister became first-generation college graduates, attending Michigan State University.

At Michigan State, Bob discovered what became a lifelong passion for literature, graduating with a degree in English. He intended to pursue graduate studies and become a professor, but in 1958, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. True to his adventurous spirit, he requested to be sent abroad, and the Army was happy to have an overseas volunteer. Stationed in South Korea, Bob developed a lasting affection for East Asia. He traveled widely, climbed Mount Fuji, and explored Japan, all while writing weekly letters home to his parents and sister.

Upon his return to the United States, Bob continued serving his country through his work with the Internal Revenue Service in New York City. Yet writing still called to him, ultimately leading him into the world of advertising. He built a distinguished career as a true “Ad Man,” working in freelance roles, co-founding his own firm, Smith, Paklaian & Bell, and later joining the prestigious Young & Rubicam. His years in Detroit advertising introduced him to a remarkable mix of people. He played basketball at the YMCA with friends including future mayor Coleman Young, and his work brought him into the same rooms as artists like Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder.

In adulthood, Bob also discovered and excelled in long-distance running, well before it became a popular sport. He was part of a vibrant running community that trained on Detroit’s Belle Isle, and his talent carried him to races around the country and internationally, including events such as the World Masters Championships in Sweden. Running also led him to Cathy Stachecki Paklaian, who would become the mother of his children. After welcoming their two children, the family settled in Troy, Michigan, where Bob devoted himself to supporting their academic and athletic pursuits. He attended every game he possibly could, always the proud and encouraging father. Bob deeply loved his children, Sara and Jonathan, and spoke of them often; he was immensely proud of the adults they became.

In his retirement years, Bob found companionship, laughter, and adventure with his loving partner, Sandra Matthews. Together they visited his children and grandchildren, and traveled frequently—especially to France, one of their favorite destinations.

Bob is survived by his children, Sara Paklaian Vesci and Jonathan Robert Paklaian; his grandsons, Connor Robert and Liam James Vesci; his son-in-law, Kevin Vesci; his brother-in-law, Richard Torley; his partner, Sandra Matthews; his former wife Cathy Paklaian; his nephews, CJ and AJ Stachecki; and his niece Yvonne Stachecki Radzook. He is also remembered fondly by extended family members and countless friends whose lives he brightened with laughter, music, and quiet loyalty.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of Bob’s favorite organizations: the Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy, the Armenian Benevolent Union, or the Arkansas River Watershed Collaborative.