A beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2024, at the age of 72. Born on February 14, 1952, in Youngs- town, Ohio to the late Joseph and Margaret Salata (nee Yanek), Bob lived a life marked by dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his family and career.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Jody (nee Hummer); his four sons and daughters-in-law, Chris and Christy Salata, Mike and Kristen Salata, Andrew and Meagan Salata, and Matt and Hayley Salata. He was a cherished grandfather to Grace, Lucy, Danny, TJ, Luke, Nick, Tommy, Ben, Henry, Leo, and Ryan, each of whom brought immense joy to his life. He was their biggest fan and rarely missed a performance, achievement or athletic contest.

Bob was a pillar of strength and support to his siblings, Carol and Gary Bertnick, Joe and Martha Salata, Jeanne Plakosh, Rick and Bonnie Salata, Diana and Dean Colaianni, and Judy Babnich. Bob was a beloved brother-in-law to Barb and Jack Smilanic, Tom and Riana Hummer, Dr. Gregory Hummer, Jim and Kim Hummer, Paul Hummer, Margaret Bigach, Susie Hummer and Molly McBride. Bob was a caring uncle to 32 nephews and nieces. His kindness, love, and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Bob was fiercely loyal to his alma maters, Cardinal Mooney High School in Youngstown, Ohio, the University of Notre Dame, and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.

He devoted 40 years to University Hospitals of Cleveland, where he served as an internationally recognized expert in the fields of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, ultimately serving as the Chair of Medicine. Bob was instrumental in the development of UH's Travel Medicine Program and their partnership with Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and the Mulago Hospital in Uganda, Africa. Dr. Bob, as he was so affectionately known by many, had a passion for medical education and research and left a lasting imprint on countless medical students, residents, fellows and colleagues. His numerous professional achievements were outweighed only by his profound impact on those around him, whether as a mentor, colleague, coach, or friend.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held at Church of the Gesu, 2470 Miramar Blvd., University Heights, Ohio 44118 on Friday, August 30, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Dr. Robert and Mary Jo Salata Endowment for Excellence at the Eck Center for Global Health at the University of Notre Dame, 1100 Grace Hall, Notre Dame, IN 46556 or the Gesu School Endowment, 2450 Miramar Blvd. University Heights, Ohio 44118.

Bob's memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of love, strength, and commitment will continue to inspire and uplift those who carry his memory and mission forward. His warmth, wisdom, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
Please sign the funeral home Tribute Wall at:
schultemahonmurphy.com

https://obits.cleveland.com/us/obituaries/cleveland/name/robert-salata-obituary?id=56116032