Robert Joseph Vavrosky

Robert Joseph Vavrosky, age 75, of Duluth died unexpectedly on August 1, 2025. Bob was born on October 21, 1949 to Joe and Shirley Vavrosky in St. Paul, MN. Shortly after graduating from Washington High School in 1968, Bob joined the Air Force during the Vietnam War. A year of his deployment was spent in northern Thailand, where he worked in Military Intelligence. Bob returned home, and using the GI Bill, attended the University of Minnesota, earning his degree in Social Work. After marrying in 1975, Joanie was always by his side. Together, they raised their 4 children in Duluth’s Lakeside neighborhood. He was an active member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Bob’s steadiness, authenticity and warmth led him to a long career as a medical social worker. He worked and made lifelong connections at Miller Dwan, St. Mary’s, and St. Luke’s, from where he retired in 2018. Bob often volunteered with the St. Louis River Experience, Honor Flight Northland, Knights of Columbus, the CHUM Warming Center, and other organizations. Bob’s gift of connection, whether in person or online, made the world feel smaller— and better.

Travel was a meaningful part of Bob’s life, and he and Joanie treasured the vacations they shared with family and friends. Bob loved taking his grandkids tubing on Sunshine Lake. In the winter, he took pride in clearing an ice rink and trail system for all the residents. He found great joy in tending his garden, especially admiring his raspberries, tomatoes and flowers. He had a deep passion for cars and was a dedicated board member of the Twin Ports Mustang & Ford Club, where he formed lasting friendships and shared his love of classic automobiles. Bob also loved baking and sharing recipes with his family. His famous rum cake will be missed as much as the man who made it.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his family: wife of 49 years, Joanie; children, Liz (Tim) Johnson, Peter (Suzanne) Vavrosky, Katie (John Gottschald) Vavrosky, and Emily Gormley; grandchildren, Dylan & Bennett, Maddy & Elie, and Lexi & Emma; sister, Linda (Jim) Greenwalt; dear family friend, Julie Perrin; his beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels; and numerous extended family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, 4901 E. Superior St, Duluth, on Saturday, August 16th. Keeping with the Vavrosky family tradition, Mass will begin at 10:10AM. A luncheon will follow at Clyde Iron Works. All are welcome to gather, share memories and honor the life of a truly special man. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s name may be made to CHUM, MACV or St. Michael’s Church.

Bob’s life was filled with love, laughter, and complexity. In honoring his memory, the family encourages compassionate conversations about mental health. Share your fears, your joys, and your struggles—no feeling is too small to be heard.