I have the same problem.
I was on Windows 8 64 bit Professional.
The problem started after I upgraded to Windows 8.1 64 bit Professional.
The problem happen specifically when I connect to my workplace VPN.
It happens every time I Remote Desktop or connect to Ctirix over a VPN connection.
After the connection drops, the Connections in the Networks charm bar (the blue section that slides in when I click on wireless icon on the status bar) disappears. But in "View Connections", I still see that my VPN is connected. I cannot disconnect the VPN because trying to disconnect it brings up the Networks charm bar and there is no VPN connection visible.
From here on, if I disable and enable the Intel Centrino 6205 device in Device Manager, I will get back the wireless connection but the Connections section on the Networks charm bar is still gone ie I cannot connect to VPN.
If I reboot, the Connections on Networks charm bar returns.