Robert “Robbie” James Panek, after a courageous battle, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 16, 2026. He was born on April 22, 2026, the beloved son of Zachary Panek and Shannon Terwilliger Panek.

A funeral service to celebrate his precious life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, August 20, 2026, in the chapel of Gordon Funeral Service, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112, with burial to follow in Lakeland Memorial Park.

From the very beginning of his short life, Robbie was a fighter. Born with a congenital heart defect, he faced challenges that no child should ever have to endure, yet he showed a strength and courage that inspired everyone who loved him. Our Heart Warrior filled our lives with immeasurable love in his short time with us. Though his time on earth was far too brief, the impact he made on our hearts will last forever. Robbie was loved by so many, and his story touched the hearts of countless people, including many who never had the opportunity to meet him. His life brought people together, inspired prayers, and reminded us all of the extraordinary power of love. We will forever cherish every moment we were blessed to have with him and carry his beautiful memory with us always.

Robbie is survived by his parents, Zachary and Shannon Panek; his sister, Catie Panek; paternal grandparents, Robert and Susanne Panek; and maternal grandparents, James and Victoria Terwilliger.

Our family is eternally grateful to the incredible Levine Children’s Hospital family who cared for Robbie and walked beside us throughout his journey. Their compassion, dedication, love, and support meant more to our family than words can express. We will forever hold gratitude in our hearts for everyone who fought alongside our little Heart Warrior and loved him as their own.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donations in Robbie’s memory to Madelyn’s Fund (madelynsfund.org), 220 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28233; Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte (rmhclt.org/donate/), 1613 E. Morehead St., Charlotte, NC 28207; or The HEARTest Yard (receptionsforresearch.org), 4350 Congress St., Suite 175, Charlotte, NC 28209.

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112, is honored to be entrusted to care for the Panek Family.