Theta Xi - Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Robert G. Beck '55 (A830), 90, of New York, entered Chapter Eternal on November 24, 2023. Bob's daughter, Sandra, was kind enough to share with us these words about her father: "Robert Gilbert Beck was born on February 9, 1934, in Rochester, New York, to Emily and Gilbert Beck. Bob pursued his higher education at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, earning a Bachelor of Science in Engineering. One of his most cherished college experiences was his membership in the Theta Xi Fraternity, where he formed lasting friendships and enjoyed numerous joyful moments. Bob often reminisced about his fraternity days with great fondness and humor, treasuring the bonds and memories he created with his Theta Xi brothers. During his time at Rensselaer, he also met his future wife, Gloria. After graduating, Bob proudly served as an officer in the United States Navy. He and Gloria later became parents to four children: Stephen, Susan, Sandra, and Douglas. Bob played a significant role in their lives, as well as in the lives of his grandchildren: Max, Zach, Austin, Lauren, and Sterling. The family lived in Clarence, New York, where Bob advanced his engineering career and raised his children. They enjoyed many beautiful summers at their cherished weekend home in Canandaigua, New York. Bob will be remembered for his giant heart, his love for his family, friends, the Buffalo Bills, and his passion for storytelling. He had the ability to captivate listeners for hours with his tales full of love and laughter. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bob's presence was a blessing to those around him, and he will be deeply missed." Peter N. Larochelle '98 (A1435), 47, entered Chapter Eternal on April 21, 2024, in Florida after a brief illness. Born on May 5, 1976, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Pete grew up in Waterville, Maine, along with his four siblings. During his high school years, he enjoyed playing on the golf and tennis teams. Upon enrolling at RPI, Pete soon joined Theta Xi and became a central figure at Alpha Chapter. One brother remarked, "Pete carried the spirit of Theta Xi in everything he did, embodying our ideals of leadership, service, and brotherhood. His energy was infectious, his dedication unwavering, and his friendship a gift that many of us were fortunate to share." Graduating in 1998 with a degree in Chemical Engineering, Pete went on to pursue a career in industrial automation. In 2004, he co-founded MES Technologies with Dan Perkins, focusing on MES and SCADA applications. Pete then became a partner at NeoMatrix in 2009, working with Dan Perkins and Danny Haskell. Over the years, his company role grew from heading up the MES division to taking on the role of Vice-President of Sales for NeoMatrix in 2020. Outside of work, Pete enjoyed poker and, although short- lived, his participation in the 2003 World Series of Poker was a highlight. He enjoyed live music festivals, golf, cooking, and the simple pleasures of life during summers spent in Maine. Pete's love of play manifested when he was with his son, Teddy. He is survived by the love of his life, Gentel, to whom he was a devoted husband; his children, stepdaughter, Grace, and son, Teddy; his mother; his siblings; and many beloved nieces and nephews. The family has asked for consideration to fund Teddy's education. Donations may be made at https://gift.my529.org/T3U1M7 For a more complete portrait of Pete's life, please read his obituary found at www.mackeyfuneralhome.com. Special thanks to Alex Donnell and others for sharing their thoughts about Pete. Robert L. Robles-Mejia '09 (A1577), 36, of Ballston Spa, New York, entered Chapter Eternal on May 10, 2024. Born on June 21, 1987, Rob grew up in Copiague, New York, out on Long Island. The son of two Dominican immigrants, he had two older brothers and one younger sister. Rob earned a Bachelor's degree in Electronic Media from RPI in 2009, living in the Capital District after graduation. In August 2009, he started work at Name Bubbles which "primarily makes custom name & identification sticks for kids' clothing and items." Employed by the company up until his sudden and unexpected passing, Rob developed and managed "software for workflow efficiency and automation, template design, and quality control" as well as handling IT services, and aiding in packaging, product, and web design. He married his sweetheart of five years, Dorothy, on August 26, 2023, in Castleton–on–Hudson, New York. After Rob's passing, Dorrie shared, "Rob was always boisterous and full of life. Ready to share a joke, a smile, a hug, with all his friends and brothers. He also loved to troll anyone at every opportunity. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed." Rob is survived by his wife, his parents, two brothers, a sister, and several nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life for Rob was held on June 22, 2024, at Alpha Chapter and at Brown's Brewing Company in Troy. Thanks to Carl Busta and others for sharing their thoughts about Rob.

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