Robert Vernon Podewils

Robert Vernon Podewils died peacefully on October 19, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, at the age of 59 years. Robert is survived by his wife Melissa Lynn Podewils; his beloved daughters, Samantha Olivia and Nicole Elizabeth Podewils; his sister Lisa Podewils Korologos; his brother John David Podewils; his niece Lexi Joy Korologos; and his nephews Jack Christopher Korologos and Reilly Griffin Podewils.

Robert was born on July 16, 1966, in St. Paul, Minnesota to Robert Clark Podewils and Susan Ellen Podewils. Robert moved with his parents and younger brother to Goldens Bridge, New York, where he graduated from John Jay High School and then obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration at Pace University. Robert began his career in corporate real estate in New York as a valued associate at Sykes International, representing clients such as British Petroleum, Bank of Scotland, and Allied Irish Bank. After marrying Melissa in 1999, they moved to Charlotte NC, where they raised their daughters and Robert continued to work in corporate real estate at Carlsen Douglas Development and Sperry Van Ness. Most recently, Robert was enthusiastically engaged in the collectible resale market.

Robert’s true passion was his daughters, Samantha and Nicole. Samantha is a second year law student at the American University’s Washington School of Law pursuing her Juris Doctorate with a focus on Intellectual Property. Nicole is exploring ways to combine her twin passions of helping children and working in the beauty industry. Robert also enjoyed spending time with his friend Stephen Lucas, often playing golf, and relaxing on his balcony with his beloved Maltese Bella.

Robert will always be remembered for his big heart. He cared and felt deeply, which at times made his life very challenging. He was deeply appreciative of all the love and support that he received during his times of struggle. All who knew and loved Robert will miss him deeply but are grateful that he has finally found the peace that often eluded him in life.

A memorial service is scheduled for 12 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Hankins & Whittington Funeral Home, 1111 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC, with a reception to follow. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org) or Shatterproof (www.shatterproof.org) in Robert’s memory.