Robert V. Wodatch

MERIDEN - Robert Wodatch, 86 years young, of Meriden, passed away suddenly on Saturday, May 21, 2016. He was the beloved husband of Kathryn M. Wodatch, his Hon, for over 62 years.

Bob was born in Meriden on April 23, 1930, to the late John and Catherine (Femia) Wodatch. He resided in Meriden all his life and was proud to call Meriden his home. He graduated from Meriden High School, class of 1948, received his bachelor's from Central Connecticut State Teachers College, he earned his master's from Wesleyan and his Sixth Year from UConn. Mr. Wodatch was employed by the Meriden Board of Education for 39 years as a teacher, principal and an administrator at Central Office. He inspired generations of students and colleagues by his hard work and dedication to all. He was a veteran of the Korean Conflict, having served with distinction with the U.S. Army Medical Corps as a sergeant and medic. He was a parishioner of St. Joseph's Church and was an active member of the Meriden Golf Commission. Bob enjoyed playing golf, spending time at the beach, nature, traveling, painting, and gardening. Above all else, he truly loved spending time with his family, who will all miss his words of wisdom and kind and caring spirit.

Besides his Hon, he is survived by his children, Lynne Patry and husband, Ron, Bill Wodatch and Lisa Forte, Tom Wodatch and wife, Tracy, Dan Wodatch, Pete Wodatch, and Trish Wodatch and Steve O'Donnell; his grandchildren, Jill Patry and Tim Patry, Heather and Tom Ewen, Sally and Gabe Tipton, Amy and Kenny Derrickson, Rebecca Wodatch, Minnie Wodatch, Jeff, Kevin and John Wodatch, Sophia Wodatch, and Dmitri O'Donnell; his great grand-children, Joshua Rodriguez, Elias and Emilia Tipton and William Ewen; his brothers, David Wodatch and wife, Nancy, Raymond Wodatch, John Wodatch and wife, Sue; and his brother-in-law, Michael Mancano. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and their families; numerous friends; and extended family. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Rosalie Wodatch; brother-in-law, John Mancano; and his four legged, furry friend, Sharm.

His family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, May 31, from 4 to 7 p.m. at St. Joseph's Church, 22 Goodwill Ave. The funeral will be held Wednesday, June 1, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph's Church. Everyone is asked to meet directly at church. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Project Excel, 35 Pleasant St. Unit 1A, Meriden CT, 06450, Nerden Camp, P.O. Box 2617, Meriden, CT 06451 or Gallery 53, 53 Colony St. Meriden CT 06451. Arrangements are under the direction of the John J. Ferry Funeral Home, 88 E. Main St., Meriden. For online condolences please visit www.jferryfh.com.