Robert Samuel 'Bobby Sam' Vojvodich, Sr. Passes Away at 79

The longtime Weirton Steel employee and devoted family man died after a battle with cancer.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Robert Samuel 'Bobby Sam' Vojvodich, Sr., a 79-year-old resident of Weirton, West Virginia, passed away at his home on January 27, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. Vojvodich had a long career at Weirton Steel, starting at just 17 years old and retiring at 55 after 38 years with the company. He was known as a devoted family man who enjoyed traveling, golfing, and gambling.

Why it matters

Vojvodich's passing marks the end of an era for Weirton Steel, a once-thriving industrial hub in West Virginia that has seen significant decline in recent decades. His story reflects the experiences of many longtime steel workers in the region who dedicated their careers to a single employer.

The details

Vojvodich was born in Steubenville, Ohio in 1947 and graduated from Steubenville Catholic Central High School in 1964. He began working at Weirton Steel at just 17 years old, but was soon drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served in France as a Military Police officer. After returning home, Vojvodich resumed his career at Weirton Steel, working his way up from the railroad to the robotics lab before retiring at age 55. In 1993, he married Brenda Browning, and the couple shared a love of traveling by car. Vojvodich also enjoyed golfing and gambling at local casinos.

Vojvodich was born on January 7, 1947.
He graduated from high school in 1964.
Vojvodich began working at Weirton Steel at age 17.
He served in the U.S. Army in France.
Vojvodich passed away on January 27, 2026 at the age of 79.

The players