Robert Michael Vodzak

Robert Michael Vodzak, age 58, of Mechanicsburg, and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, passed away on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Robert was born on Wednesday, December 28, 1966, in Wilkes-Barre to the late John Lawrence Vodzak and Carolyn Joyce (Edwards) Vodzak.

Robert’s survivors include his wife of 36 years, Cynthia “Cindy” Marie (Simpson) Vodzak; his seven siblings: John Vodzak and wife Ann, of Youngsville, NC, James Vodzak and wife Mary, of Bear Creek Twp, David Vodzak of Nanticoke, Barbara Sharry and husband Michael, of Wilkes-Barre, Lisa Vodzak and companion John Martin, of Plymouth, Marie Gitomer and husband Stuart, of Nanticoke, Elaine Vodzak and companion Thomas Young, of Shavertown; his sister-in-law Sandy (Simpson) Burns and husband Chris of Fredericksburg, VA, his sister-in-law Lori (Simpson) Stucker of Wilkes-Barre, his father-in-law Charles Simpson of Quakertown; several nieces and nephews; his three beloved feline companions: Zack, Howie, and Nick; and his dearly departed Whiskers, Cali, Grey, Zoey, Abby and Kitty. He is also preceded in death by his mother-in-law Lorraine Simpson.

Robert, known as Bob or Rob to his friends and family was a Certified Public Account for the past 37 years. He worked at various accounting firms in the area, and managed several non-profit and small business accounts over the course of his career. Rob took an immense amount of pride in his work, always holding himself and his coworkers to the highest ethical and accounting standards. He instilled trust in his clients, delivering high quality work that was unmatched, always working late into the evening, on weekends and holidays to do the job right. Even when he traveled, his work went with him, often off the clock. 

His wife, Cindy, was the love of his life. They met in kindergarten, although it took them until their college years for friendship to turn into a lifetime of love together. They moved to Mechanicsburg shortly after college graduation and built a life in the area ever since. They enjoyed traveling together, with favorite vacation spots being the coast of Maine and the Outer Banks of North Carolina, going to arts festivals as well as antiquing.

Rob had many nieces and nephews, across many states and age ranges. He held a special place in his heart for them all. Although work often kept him from family events, he relished in his role as the fun uncle. He never hesitated to play on the floor with toys, grab a crayon and color a picture, watch a cartoon, play a game, sit on the beach and search for shells and sharks’ teeth or go and play outside, and he never shied away from a living room dance party. He brought laughter, fun and light heartedness to every visit. Although not one for outward displays of emotion, Rob loved deeply and cherished his time with them. 

Rob and Cindy could often be found visiting, vacationing and spending holidays with their Virginia family, including their nieces Katelyn and Brynna. Rob was a significant part of their lives, and the girls eagerly awaited his visits. He could be counted on to bring the surprise treats, the endless quarters for the toy machines, boundless energy for whatever new adventure they suggested, and laughter and silliness for days. He always brought humor to their group-chat, checking in most days with silly quips and one-liners. His love for them could only be matched by their love for him.  

In his limited free time, Rob enjoyed working in the yard and watching sports, especially tennis, basketball and golf. He loved watching British TV shows, classic reruns such as MASH, Little House on the Prairie, the Waltons and how-to or home improvement shows. When he was patient enough to sit still, he enjoyed crafting & painting, photography, puzzles, bird watching, going to his favorite restaurants, and working around the house. He had a quick wit, wonderful sense of humor and could find laughter in most any situation. A true animal lover, he cherished his furry-kids who brought him great joy with their silly feline antics and unconditional love. His home and his heart was always large enough for another cat.  

Rob left this world far too soon, after a very unexpected but immensely courageous battle. He is missed terribly, although there is peace in knowing that he can finally rest and is now reunited with his furry-kids who passed before him. Rob’s immediate family will host a Celebration of Life in the coming months, and details will be forthcoming. Cremation was private at this time.

Contributions in celebration of Robert’s life can be made to Helen O. Krause Animal Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 311, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055-0311, www.helenkrause.org.

Roberts’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Robert’s full obituary, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.