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Robert Levandoski Obituary
Robert C. Levandoski passed away suddenly on September 8, 2008.
He was born on June 5, 1949 to Clyde and Edna. Born in the historic area of Bennett's Corners Ohio, Rob grew up to cherish the memories and legacy of his family's century old farm. Throughout Rob's life he instilled the value of family and often spoke proudly and fondly of his ancestors. He carried their resolve of adversity to many areas of his life.
Beginning his career in journalism, he worked at the Medina Gazette where he would meet lifelong friends and mentors. Rob continued developing his love for research and writing as managing editor for a national consumer magazine. Rob fulfilled his dream of publishing his first novel in 1997, Going to Chicago. He again displayed his love of family by telling the tale of his father and Uncle Corwin going to the World's Fair in 1934. As three novels followed, Rob perfected the art of visual analogy and the inner working of small town politics. He continued weaving tales in his mystery novels under the pen name CR Corwin. In 2004, Rob's novel Fresh Eggs was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. His love of instruction was for all to see as he taught writing courses at the University of Akron.
Rob was passionate about politics, equality, and learning. He passed the legacy of fairness and unconditional love unto his children. Forever in our memories is the strength Rob showed during family tragedy. He diligently cared for his father during his struggle with Alzheimer's and was a stronghold during his sister-in-laws battle with cancer.
Preceded in death was his sister-in-law, Joyce Biliczky in 2003; and his father, Clyde in 2005. He leaves his beloved wife, Carol Levandoski; mother, Edna; brother, Donald (Linda); daughters, Jenifer Sperrazza (Charles), Kary Prince (Brian); grandson, Gabriel Remark; niece, Heidi Yatsko (George); and children, father and mother-in-law, Charles and Rose Bilickzy; friend and mentor, Sandy Lemasters; colleagues and friends at the Akron Beacon Journal, The University of Akron, and the Permanent Press Publishing Company, lifelong friends, Howard Cook, Paul Grant, Gary Hemphill, Jim Kerns, Dale Maharidge, and Ed Noga, and his mischievous dogs, Dudley and Nellie.
Join us for reflection and celebration of Rob's life at Waite and Son Funeral Home, 765 N. Court St. in Medina, OH 44256, Saturday at 11:00 a.m. Family will receive friends Friday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial Spring Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the University of Akron Foundation, Akron, OH 44325-2603 for a scholarship in his name. This will continue Rob's legacy of learning to perfect the written word.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Levandoski
Laurie Zak
September 13, 2008
To the Levandoski family Mom, Don Edna, Heidi, Jessica, Kary, and Carol and all the extended family including Suzi and Lynn. My sisters and I were blessed when Don came into Moms life, we were even more blessed with each and everyone of you, and the jokes Robert played on Mom with the dolls were a topic most Sundays in either our being there or phone calls the "pretzel" incident was the most memorable. One day when I was visiting and Rob was still living there he went through the upstairs room (his writing area) and told me about each and every detail of every piece of artifact up there (yes Don you just did that a few weeks ago too but I did not want to burst your bubble). Rob gave Mom and Don some much needed relaxation during the times with Clyde. Robert was a good Man and we will all miss him. Kary and Jennifer, I know your heart is breaking I can not imagine the pain, Edna, my grandma the loss of a son is something hard to bear, Don I can only imagine your grief to all the extended family I love you all. There is a song in Heaven right now. Be not afraid I go before you always, come follow me and I will give you rest. God is waiting for Robert, just like he was waiting for our Mike's, Grandpa L, Grandpa Z Grandma Z, Botht Grandma T's, Grandpa T and all others in our lives we miss. I will pray for all of you this Sunday and know I love each of you.
Laurie
September 13, 2008
Our sympathy to all the family and friends. Robert did a very nice job when he spoke at the club's last anniversary banquet.
Akron Manuscript Club
(oldest writers' group in Ohio)
[email protected]
Gloria Sensel (Huff)
September 12, 2008
I too have great memories of Bob from high school. The world is a sadder place due to his passing but will be better for his memory.
Melody Kokochak (Winkler)
September 12, 2008
I have fond memories of "Bob" from high school, he was always bright and so much fun. I had no idea he had gone on to such journalistic heights. I'm very proud to have known him, and very shocked and saddened to have read of his passing...my sympathies are with his family and friends who were fortunate enough to have enjoyed him for so many years, God bless all of you.
Trudy Painting
September 11, 2008
Dear Carol,
I was so sorry to hear of Robert's sudden passing and extend my deepest condolences. "Fresh Eggs" is sitting on the shelf behind me from when Carol Kamm and I attended one of Robert's readings, and which story I savored from cover to cover. I know this is such an incredibly difficult time for you. My hope is that the love and support of family and friends will help you through your grief--giving you strength, comfort and understanding.
Katina Jones
September 10, 2008
Carol,
I was so sorry to hear the news of Rob's passing. May his memory be eternal, and may your memories sustain you in the days to come. Continue your conversations and keep the love alive.
Brook ,Vikki, Cathy, Kenny Hinckley Barber Shop
September 10, 2008
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Jon & Jodi Prince
September 10, 2008
Kary,
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your father, may the love of friends and family carry you through your grief...
Steve Forster
September 10, 2008
Sincere sympathy to all Bob's family members and friends. In the short time I knew Bob at HBJ, I found him a supportive, humorous and extremely pleasant man, who I was glad to have met. His writing clearly stood out from the usual trade press copy.
Mark Kuhar
September 10, 2008
Rob Levandoski was one of the finest writers Medina County ever produced. His passing leaves a huge void in the Northeast Ohio literary community. All healing energy goes to his family, friends, and beloved dogs.
Anjy Jefferys
September 10, 2008
To the family of Mr. Levandoski...
I was so sorry to hear that Mr. Levansoski passed away. I recently took a writing course at Akron University. He was a great inspriation and offered such motivation for writing - something I enjoy. He was down-to-earth and will be missed. My prayers to all of you.
Anjy Jefferys
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