SFC Robert J. Fike

SFC Robert James Fike died Friday, June 11, 2010 in Zabul, Afghanistan, while serving with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. He was born in Jeannette July 23, 1971. He graduated from Penn-Trafford High School class of 1989, and Edinboro University. Bob was a highly decorated soldier whose awards and decorations included the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Army Achievement Medal (3rd award), Combat Action Badge, NATO Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Keystone Freedom Medal, Afghan Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon. Bob had been a member of the National Guard (28th Military Police Co.) for 16 years. He was a Pennsylvania State employee with 13 ½ years of service and had been a Corrections Officer at SCI Albion since 2002, holding the rank of Sergeant. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his daughter, the love and joy of his life. Bob is survived by his daughter MacKenzie Fike-Bliscik of Meadville, parents Jime and Chris Fike of Trafford, a brother Christopher Fike (Nicole) of Monroeville, maternal grandmother Liz Balkovec of Trafford and nephew Tristan and nieces Alexa and Parker. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Ross and Geraldine Fike, his maternal grandfather Joseph "Shorty" Balkovec and an uncle Robert Fike. Family and friends will be received from 2-8 PM on Monday and Tuesday in the Christian Life Church, 900 7th St. Ext. (Rt. 130) Trafford. Funeral services will be at 10 AM Wednesday in the church with Army Chaplin (LTC) Douglas Etter officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in the Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Washington County. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the SFC Robert J. Fike Fund to benefit Bob's Daughter. Donations can be made through the family or any Citizens Bank Branch. The John M. Dobrinick Funeral Home Inc., 702 7th St. (Rt. 130), Trafford, (412)-372-3111 is assisting the family with arrangements.

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