Robert Joseph VaVerka

Robert Joseph VaVerka, age 82, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 1, 2025, following a courageous battle with dementia.

Born on November 20, 1942, in Redford Township, Michigan, Bob was the son of Walter and Katherine (Capra) VaVerka. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary (Fincham) VaVerka; daughters Ann (Dan) Roiter of Charlotte and Susan Authement (Jerry Whitewolf) of Flint; grandson Devin Roiter of Charlotte; sister Katherine Lowman (Steve Oeffner) of Bedford, Texas; great-granddaughter Vi Smith of New York; and honorary daughter, Libby Klaiss, of Charlotte; along with extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved granddaughter, Amanda Authement.

Bob spent his career in sales—and he truly could sell anything. Even after retirement, he never stopped tinkering, always finding a project to keep his hands busy and out of Mary's hair.

A lifelong car enthusiast, Bob loved them all—new, vintage, and especially fast. Whether it was a Model T or a Camaro filling the garage, he was happiest behind the wheel, windows down, offering a ride to anyone willing.

When he wasn’t in the garage or barn, Bob could be found on the water. His love of the outdoors—hunting, fishing, boating—was undeniable, shaped by summers up north and by building the family cottage on Lake Bellaire. Up north was his sanctuary, a place to recharge with loved ones, while watching the boats go by or being out on the water.

Bob was known for his humor, always ready with a joke and a mischievous twinkle in his eye. He adored animals and always had a loyal dog at his side—from Buttons to Ruby—and he shared in Mary’s love of horses, even keeping a few drafts of his own.

Much of his time was spent caring for his land, whether mowing, working in the barn, or carving trails through the property. His family will forever remember the “Bobby 9 Toes” chapter of his life—a lawnmower mishap that became a legendary story.

Even with one less toe, Bob never lost his balance. He remained the steady foundation of his family: a leader, a counselor, and someone who never ended a phone call or visit without saying “I love you.”

Bob did not wish for a formal service. Instead, he asked that you spend that time with family—especially those you haven’t seen in a while. Make new memories using the time you would spend at his service, because life is short.

His family will hold a private gathering at a later date, raising a gin and tonic in his honor.

Those wishing to honor Bob may make contributions to Elara Caring Hospice, 3100 West Road, Building 2, Suite 110, East Lansing, MI 48823.

To view Bob’s obituary online or to leave condolences for the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

The family is being served by Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.