Robert "Bob" Gottschalk

In Loving Memory of Robert "Bob" Gottschalk
November 11, 1942 – May 30, 2025

Robert “Bob” Gottschalk, 82, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away on May 30, 2025. Known for his strength, discipline, and tireless work ethic, Bob was a dedicated family man, a national drag racing champion, a proud railroad worker, and a small business owner who lived life with passion and purpose.

Bob began his career with the railroad in 1970, where he worked long and demanding hours for three decades until a racing accident in 2000 led to his retirement. In the world of drag racing, Bob earned national recognition. His greatest triumph came in 1982 when he won the NHRA Top Alcohol Funny Car Championship, highlighted by a career-defining victory at the U.S. Nationals. His racing career spanned over 30 years, during which he became known for his fearlessness, competitive spirit, and resilience—especially following the life-threatening crash in 2000 that he miraculously survived. During those same years, Bob also ran his own auto body shop—Dutch’s Collision Works—a testament to his incredible work ethic and deep-rooted love for cars. Whether at the rail yard, in the garage, or on the racetrack, Bob approached everything with precision, pride, and unwavering commitment.

Outside of work and racing, Bob had a love for travel, often hitting the road or the air with his wife Donna to explore new places. At home, he was known for his meticulous nature—his garage was always spotless. He took immense pride in his space, his vehicles, and everything he worked on. That same pride extended to the values he passed down: work hard, be honest, and give your best—every single day.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved son Robert “Bobby” (Colleen) Gottschalk, his parents Alta McKinley and Robert Gottschalk, and brothers Jack and Larry Gottschalk.

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna Gottschalk; son Chad (Celia) Gottschalk; daughter Laurie Ward; brothers Dutch (Jeanne) Gottschalk and Jeff (Karen) McKinley; grandchildren Robert (Amy) Gottschalk, Josh Gottschalk, Patrick (Jodi) Brazeau, Keira Gottschalk, and Harper Gottschalk; as well as many nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren.

Bob Gottschalk was the kind of man who left a mark—on the racetrack, in his home, and most of all, in the hearts of his family and friends. His legacy will live on in the stories, lessons, and memories he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday June 4th,2025 from 3-8 p.m. at Reeb Funeral home – 5712 Main St, Sylvania, OH 43560, where the funeral service will take place on Thursday, June 5 th , 2025, beginning at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bob’s memory to Hospice of Northwest Ohio to who the family extends their greatest appreciation for the care he received.

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