Robert “Bob” Wiltanger, 83, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, with loved ones at his side.
He was born on March 12, 1943, in Oil City, Pennsylvania, to Frank and Mary Wiltanger.
Bob is now reunited with the love of his life, Cathryn Marie Wiltanger, who preceded him in death October 2025. They were blessed with 60 years of marriage.
Bob spent his career in the lumber and building industry, where he formed lasting relationships with customers and vendors alike. His work with Wickes Lumber brought his family to Mansfield, Ohio, where he built not only a successful career but a lifetime of friendships.
In retirement, Bob cherished winters in Chandler, Arizona, where he and Cathy created many dear friendships. He could often be found singing karaoke, floating in the pool, or spending time with his beloved “car guys.” He also loved vacationing with family on Sanibel Island, Florida, where many treasured memories were made celebrating life’s big and small moments at the Lighthouse Café. He was also an Ohio State Buckeyes enthusiast, while also enjoying watching Cleveland baseball and old westerns.
A lifelong DIY enthusiast and skilled craftsman, Bob had a passion for working on cars and tackling home improvement projects. He took great pride in the home he built in 1975, where they lived for 50 years. A devoted Ford Mustang enthusiast, he completed two full restorations over his lifetime and owned several others, along with a few additional “fun cars.” Bob showed his love through action, generously sharing his time and talents to help family and friends with their own projects—earning him the affectionate nickname “Bob the Builder.”
But the title he cherished most was Grandpa Bob or simply G-Bob! Over 38 years as a grandfather, he was a constant and proud presence on the sidelines—whether at the field, courtside, stage, or wherever his 13 grandchildren were pursuing their passions.
Bob was immensely proud of his family, especially his four children: Kelly Lee Smith (John), Wendy Sue Markel (Dave), Douglas Jeffrey Wiltanger (Tiffany), and Robert Shane Wiltanger (Kristen). He was also lovingly known as “Dad” to Jan Vollmer (Sabine) of Osnabrück, Germany.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mary Wiltanger; his wife, Cathryn Marie Wiltanger; his siblings, Frank Wiltanger and Connie Kovacs; his brother-in-law, Harlan Reitz; and his grandson, Josiah Smith.
He is survived by his siblings, Louise Reitz, Gene Wiltanger, Richard Wiltanger (Mary), and Mary Ann Owens, as well as many in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom shared in countless fond memories with Bob.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Primrose Retirement Community and SouthernCare Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion they provided.
Visitation will be held Thursday, August 6, 2026 from 4-6 pm at Snyder Funeral Homes, 2553 Lexington Avenue, Mansfield, OH 44904. A graveside service will be held Friday, beginning at 11 AM, at Mansfield Memorial Park, 2507 Park Ave West, Ontario, OH 44906. As a long-term member of St. Peter’s Church, the graveside service will be officiated by a Father from St. Peter’s Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Ohio Bird Sanctuary, 3774 Orweiler Road, Mansfield, OH 44903.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve the Wiltanger family and encourage you to leave a fond memory or watch her tribute video at SnyderFuneralHome.com
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHome.com