Robert Szymczak

Robert Szymczak, 79, of Coraopolis, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospice in Wexford. 

Born May 12, 1946 in Tarentum, Pennsylvania, and raised in his cherished hometown of East Vandergrift, Robert carried the spirit of his community with him throughout his life. From his earliest years, he was captivated by history—a fascination that would shape not only his career but also the way he saw and shared the world.

For 52 years, Robert dedicated himself to teaching, inspiring thousands of students with his infectious enthusiasm, sharp wit, and the rare ability to make history come alive. For 38 of those years, he served as a beloved history professor at Penn State University, where he earned numerous teaching honors, including Penn State’s prestigious George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2002.

A lifelong scholar, Robert earned a Doctor of Arts degree from Carnegie Mellon University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from The University of Lancaster. He published over 30 articles and presented more than 50 papers at academic conferences, several of which were published in The Polish Review by The Polish Institute of Arts and Sciences of America. In 2014, he was awarded the Polish Gold Cross of Merit, one of Poland’s highest honors, at the University of Warsaw, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the study of Polish history and the promotion of Polish culture—a true testament to his lifelong devotion to his heritage.

Robert’s loving spouse of 27 years, Dana, was his partner in all things—his confidante, support, and the love of his life. Together, they shared countless quiet evenings, and adventures near and far. Their daughter, Krystyna Aleksandra (Krysia), was the center of his heart; she affectionately called him “Tata,” the Polish word for daddy, a name that reflected the deep love, guidance, and joy he gave her. He delighted in teaching her about history, music, and life itself, often weaving in a story or song that left her laughing or thoughtful. He was a source of guidance, strength, and unconditional love. The lessons he shared, the laughter he brought, and the quiet moments spent together will be cherished forever.

Beyond his professional life, Robert’s greatest joy was his family and the small pleasures that made every day special. He cherished his daily happy hour in his personal library, surrounded by his books, raising a gin and tonic or a favorite brew and offering a cheerful “Nazdrovia!”—to your health—to anyone who joined him in spirit. It was not uncommon for him to amuse Dana or Krysia with a playful toast, a favorite song, or a shared memory, his eyes twinkling with mischief and warmth.

He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Mary Ann Holland of Baden; sister, Colleen (Dan) Walker of Apollo; sister-in-law, Linda Szymczak of Bellevue; brother-in-law, Chris (Lori) Holland of Economy; niece Sarah (Schae) Walker; and nephews Thomas Szymczak, Stephen (Jackie) Walker, Tyler Holland, and Caison Holland.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Margaret Szymczak; his brother, Bernard Szymczak; his father-in-law, James Holland; and his cherished fur companions, Bogusz and Lalka.

Friends and family will be received at Copeland Funeral Home, 981 Broadhead Road, Moon Township on Tuesday, April 7th, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at Sewickley Cemetery.

Robert will be remembered not only for his brilliant mind, his scholarship, and his dedication as an educator, but for the joy, laughter, and warmth he brought to everyone he met. Whether making history come alive in the classroom, sharing a toast with a wink of humor, or dancing along to a doo-wop tune, he had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, valued, and inspired. His life was a celebration of curiosity, kindness, and connection—a legacy that will live on in his students, his family, his friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

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