Robert B. Gudgel, 79, a resident of Williamsport for the past 25 years, died peacefully at The Gatehouse on Sunday, April 21, 2024.
Bob was born in Buffalo, NY on October 25, 1944, a son of the late Byron W. and Lillian (DeLozier) Gudgel. He was a graduate of St. Joseph Collegiate Institute and Canisius College, both in Buffalo, and went on the earn his Master’s Degree and PhD from Kent State University in Ohio.
An U.S. Army veteran, he served from 1966 to 1968 and then for an additional 27 years in the Army Reserves, being called into active duty numerous times, including during The Gulf War. He retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Bob worked in human resources and was a business consultant before moving to Williamsport to become a professor at Pennsylvania College of Technology. Prior to moving to Williamsport, he served as a lector and eucharistic minister in Warren, Ohio. Bob was active in Marriage Encounter, and while in Warren, he was also active in the Urban League. After they moved to Williamsport, Bob was active with and served on the board of Family Promise.
In the 1960’s, Bob played electric guitar in bands in the Buffalo area. Music remained a lifelong enjoyment of his, along with reading and fishing. Bob’s most important priority was his family, spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, both in Williamsport and while traveling extensively with family.
Surviving are his wife, the former Kathleen Kirsch (they celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on September 17, 2023); their children, Andrew (Kathy) Gudgel, Keith (Tina) Gudgel, Bill (Kristen Strakusek) Gudgel and Rev. Dan Gudgel; grandchildren, Peter, Lexi, and Hailey Gudgel, and Everette Strakusek Gudgel; and a sister, Virginia Skoney.
In addition to his parents, a sister, Jeanette Gudgel Desowitz and a brother, David Gudgel preceded him in death.
A Mass of Christian Burial and a Celebration of Life for Bob are being planned for this summer.
If desired, the family respectfully suggests memorial contributions in Bob’s name may be made to Family Promise, 635 Hepburn St., Williamsport, PA 17701; The Susquehanna Health Foundation, for the benefit of The Gatehouse, 1001 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA 17701 or Valley View Nursing Center for the benefit of patient activities, 2140 Warrensville Rd., Montoursville, PA 17754; or a charity of your choice.
Crouse Funeral Home has been entrusted with assisting the family with handling arrangements. Please visit Bob’s memorial page at crousefuneralhome.com to share a fond memory or sign a register book.
