Robert Joseph Gatchel 45, of Boise, Idaho formerly of Payette, Idaho passed away Friday July 30, 2010 at his home with his sister, Liz, his girlfriend, Paula and beloved dog Hoosier by his side. Robert fought a courageous battle against cancer his spirit was amazingly strong but his body was too tired to continue. Robert was born to John and Jay Gatchel on March 1, 1965, in Ontario, Oregon. He was their only son. Robert was eager to begin his wonderful life arriving 6 weeks premature. Robert had a zest for life and most summer nights could be found playing hide-n-seek, kick the can, kickball or baseball with his two sisters, his dog Tiger and the neighborhood kids. Robert would travel with his family most summers to South Carolina, Indiana and California to visit his grandparents and family. Robert attended elementary, junior and senior high schools in Payette. Robert loved to swim being on the swim team, and skiing at Brundage Mountain where he and his sister would often take trails and hide candy to return the next week to dig up the treasure. While in high school, Robert was on the basketball teams having one of the highest point averages and assists. He was also captain of the Varsity team. Robert also participated on golf team at which he excelled, the school paper, and the European club. Robert was voted 'Best All Around' and was 3rd in his class graduating from Payette High School in 1983. Robert worked a year at the golf course before attending the University of Idaho in Moscow for his freshman and sophomore years. He belonged to the Kappa Sigma fraternity. Robert transferred to Indiana University to complete his junior and senior years of college. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business in 1988. Robert worked a year and a half as a sales rep for Noxel Cosmetics. He then enlisted in the Army and served from 1990 to 1992. It was in the military Robert found his calling for medicine. He enrolled in Emory University School of Medicine in 1993 graduating with a Masters of Science / Physician Assistant in December of 1995. Robert worked as a Physicians Assistant for St.Lukes Occupational Health for the last 14 years up until the time of his illness in October 2009. Robert loved to golf, ski, go fishing with his father, cook for friends and family, travel, he was a wine connoisseur, loved the Sawtooths and Redfish Lake and most of all, his wonderful dog Hoosier. He had many friends who enjoyed his sharp wit, excellent cooking, and honesty. He had a mind like a steel trap and was a wonderful host, friend, and brother. Robert enjoyed life and when you were around Robert, you enjoyed it too. Robert is survived by his dog Hoosier, his two sisters Liz Gatchel of Boise, ID and Kathy Gatchel of Payette, ID and his girlfriend Paula Smith of Portland, OR. He was preceded in death by his parents John K Gatchel and Jeannette 'Jay' M. Gatchel, his paternal and maternal grandparents, his cousin Justin McBride and his dog Bear. The family wishes to thank Legacy Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Robert and also our Mother. Robert you entered this life early and left it as you entered it, way to early. Robert you were my confidant, advisor, brother, and most of all best friend. I was honored to help you and be there for you during this difficult time. You are an eagle and so you must soar!! We love you and will miss you greatly. A celebration of Robert's life will be held at 2:00 pm Friday, August 13, 2010 at the Nampa Funeral Home, Yraguen Chapel at 415 12th Avenue South in Nampa with a gathering afterwards at the Brick 29 Bistro. In lieu of flowers the family request donations to be made to the Idaho Humane Society, 4775 Dormain St., Boise, Idaho 83705.

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