Robert Joseph Sukle

Robert Joseph Sukle, lovingly known to many as Bob, died on January 8, 2026, in Ithaca, New York, following a major cardiac event. A devoted educator, gifted gourmet cook, and cherished brother and uncle, Bob lived with deep curiosity, high standards, and a generosity that made people feel truly cared for.
Born in Paonia, Colorado, Bob grew up in Delta with five siblings. He was valedictorian of Delta High School's class of 1961 and graduated summa cum laude from the University of Colorado Boulder with a degree in English literature-already drawn not only to words, but to the wider world.
That pull led him to join the Peace Corps in 1965. Over four remarkable years, he taught English in Sabah, Malaysia on the island of Borneo, and in Thailand, immersing himself in the cultures and languages around him-Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Thai-and forming friendships that stayed with him for life. Those years ignited a passion for Asian languages and culture and ultimately brought him to Cornell University, in Ithaca, NY.
In 1971, Bob joined Cornell's Japanese Department in Asian Studies and became part of the university's pilot Full-year Asian Language Concentration program (FALCON). What began as graduate study became a calling: Bob earned his master's degree in 1972 and went on to build a 43-year career at Cornell, rising from student to colleague to director of the FALCON program-a role he held for three decades. As director, he became a nationally respected leader in Japanese language education, mentoring programs and teachers across the country. Each year, Cornell's Department of Asian Studies recognizes a Japanese language student for their dedication and love of learning with the Robert Sukle Japanese Award, honoring Bob's long-term impact.
Bob's life was equally rich beyond academia. He loved gardening-especially creating flowerbeds that expressed his vigor for life and provided enjoyment for the community of Ithaca. He cooked with flair and took real delight in hosting 14+ course meals that turned into special memories for his friends and family. His home was the ultimate reflection of his wonderfully eclectic spirit, filled with art, pottery, glassware, antiques, and more than a few action figures. He also had a keen appreciation for architectural history and never missed the chance to explore historic homes wherever he traveled.
Perhaps most of all, Bob stayed connected. Through long phone calls, thoughtful letters, emails, photos, and texts, he made sure the people he loved felt seen. Even though Bob lived 2000 miles away from his family, he was present to hold the hand of his father, mother, and brother as they passed away.
Those who knew Bob will remember a brilliant mind paired with razor-sharp wit, laughter that could brighten any room, a perfectionism rooted in pride of craft and-above all-an unfailing generosity of spirit.
Bob is survived by four siblings; Jim Sukle, Sherri Potter, Tim Sukle and Mike Sukle; and twelve nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen Sukle, nephews Donny and Cole Sukle, and his best friend and brother, Dan Sukle.
A virtual Celebration of Life will be held in the spring, details will follow. In keeping with Bob's incredible generosity and worldview, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Peace Corps or Donor Alliance.
Peace Corps
https://www.peacecorps.gov/donate/
Donor Alliance
https://www.donoralliance.org/contribute/