Robert E. Skladan's Obituary
Robert Skladan, 85, of Vermilion, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026.
Robert was a graduate of Lorain High School and went on to earn his master’s degree from Kent State University. He dedicated 30 years to teaching, beginning his career in Amherst before spending the next 28 years teaching eighth-grade Earth Science in Vermilion, where he inspired generations of students with his enthusiasm and love of learning. A dedicated educator, he wrote and secured multiple grants from regional and national science foundations, bringing hands-on scientific learning and new opportunities into his classroom.
Robert shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Vivian. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, and adventure. As partners in their travel agency, Choose To Cruise Now, they helped others create memorable journeys while enjoying many travels of their own. They also treasured evenings spent playing cards with friends. Robert had a lifelong love of baseball, having played in his younger years, and he found joy on the golf course, at the bowling alley, out on the boat, and at the casino.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Vivian Skladan; his daughters, Lisa (Tim) Volzer and Shelly (Matt) Fox; and his grandchildren, Andrew Volzer, Lauren Volzer, and Ethan Fox. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend whose kindness, curiosity, and passion for learning left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, August 5, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Rd., Amherst, Ohio. A private celebration of Robert’s life will be held with family at a later date. Donations in Rob’s memory may be made to Second Harvest Food Bank.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?