Bob Schacherl, former CEO of Robe North America since 2013, passed away after a long illness. He was 70. Robe released this statement on Schacherl’s passing:
We were deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of our beloved friend, colleague, and ultimate ping-pong champion, Bob Schacherl.
A true and undeniable icon in the entertainment lighting industry, Bob began his career with Blackstone Audio-Visual based in his hometown of Austin, TX. This later became Blackstone Productions / Lightwave Research, and then High End Systems, where Bob became a trailblazer in the industry. He continued at another maverick contributor in the history of moving light technology, Vari*Lite, and later joined Robe as the CEO of North America in 2013 where he later retired in 2019.
After his retirement, Bob and his wife Carol planned to convert the majority of their family ranch in Austin into an animal sanctuary and event space. Unfortunately, Bob became afflicted with an acute form of dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia. This affliction robbed him of his speech, mobility, and independence, until he passed at the age of 70.
He is survived by his wife Carol, son David, daughter-in-law Hollie, and two grandchildren.
For those who knew Bob, he was always a lively and energetic spirit. His passion for entertainment lighting was surpassed only by the love of his family, friends, and the University of Texas. He was always up for a spirited game of basketball or a relaxing yet competitive round of golf. While we mourn the loss of our dear friend, we know he is now at peace.
Forever a part of the Robe family, we will miss Bob greatly.
Robert Harold Schacherl
June 17th, 1954 – April 26th, 2025
We at PLSN send our sincere condolences to Schacherl’s family, colleagues, and friends. Requiescat in Pace, Bob Schacherl
