Dr. Robert J. Vitkus, DDS, 67, died peacefully at his home in Fayetteville on Monday, June 22, 2020, in the presence of his loving family and friends. Bob was born in Binghamton. He was a communicant of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Skaneateles. Bob was raised in Endicott, graduating from Seton Catholic High School in 1970, SUNY Oneonta in 1974, Georgetown Dental School in 1978 before completing his residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. Bob had his oral surgery practice in the central New York area for his entire career. He was past president of the Onondaga County Dental Society and member of the 5th District Dental Society, Dewitt Rod and Gun Club, Ruffed Grouse Society of Central New York and the Syracuse/Canadian Fish and Game Club (Mexico, N.Y.) Bob grew up as a Boy Scout and spent as much time outdoors as was possible. His father, an avid outdoorsman, taught Bob how to hunt and fish. This remained a passion throughout his life. Trusted hunting companions, Fred and Sadie, his German Shorthaired Pointers, were never far from his side. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with family and friends at his “camp” overlooking Skaneateles Lake. Bob was predeceased by his parents Walter P and Blanche M (Lovejoy) Vitkus.
He is survived by his brother, James W. (Suzanne) of Skaneateles; three nieces Lauren (Tim) Calnon of Victor, Karen of Skaneateles, Dianne of Syracuse and one great-nephew Patrick Robert Calnon of Victor.
Services are private with a memorial service at a later date. Burial will ultimately be in Calvary Cemetery, Binghamton.
The family would like to thank Hospice of Central New York and of the Finger Lakes and Nascentia Home Health for their wonderful care.
Contributions may be made to Hospice of Central New York and of the Finger Lakes, 990 7th North Street, Liverpool, NY 13088 and the Central New York Community Foundation in support of the Central New York Land Trust, 431 East Fayette Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13202.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
