Robert Stanley Szymanski, 77, of Beachwood, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025. He was a true fighter and battled both multiple myeloma and pancreatic cancer with strength and grace.
Preceded in death by his loving wife of 46 years Joyce and sister Beverly, he is survived by his son Ryan (Alison), brother Allan (Sharon), sister Joan (James), brother-in-law Rod, grandchildren Caroline and Jack, and numerous nieces, nephews, family and close friends.
The son of Stanley and Florence Szymanski, Robert grew up in Newburgh Heights, Ohio, before graduating from Cleveland State University in 1968. Soon after, he was drafted into the United States Army and served two years in Vietnam. A life long Clevelander, Robert went on to have a successful career in sales, but love of his family and friends defined his life most. He and his wife Joyce were always the life of the party.
He loved telling stories and his genuine excitement for life was apparent to everyone he met. He never shied away from sharing his infinite wisdom, especially with his son Ryan for whom he was a constant presence. One of his greatest joys was being Caroline and Jack’s “Papa.” He spent many special moments with them, even through many health challenges. They share a very close bond and he will undoubtedly continue spoiling his grandchildren from Heaven.
Calling hours will be held at WAITE FUNERAL HOME 3300 CENTER RD. BRUNSWICK on Thursday May 15th from 4-7pm.
The funeral service will be held on Friday May 16th at 9:15am at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to Cancer Support Community Central Ohio c/o The Robert and Joyce Szymanski Empowerment Fund, a fund established in their honor to help others as they deal with cancer.