Robert G. Giacalone's Obituary
Robert “Rob” G. Giacalone, 67, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at Elkhart Care Center-Brickyard in Elkhart. Robert was born November 14, 1956, in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, to Josephine (LaRosa) and John Giacalone. The family immigrated to the United States in 1964 and settled in Amherst, Wisconsin.
Following graduation from Amherst High School in 1974, Robert enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, training at Lowry Air Force Base in Colorado. Here he excelled, specializing in munitions and weapons maintenance field training. Rob's service was marked by a sense of duty, and his fellow servicemen respected him for his commitment to excellence. He served his country six years and was honorably discharged in 1980.
Rob found joy in the outdoors, including camping and going on hunting and fishing trips in different states. Those adventures created lasting memories, even if he didn’t return with a trophy from the hunt or bag his limit. Whether casting a line from the shore or navigating waters by boat, he found solace in the rhythm of the water and the thrill of a catch and peace spending time in nature.
Rob was passionately fascinated with model airplanes and remote-controlled aircraft. He spent countless hours meticulously crafting and flying miniature marvels, taking delight in the intricacies of aviation. An avid sports enthusiast, Rob played football as a young man and watched it as he got older, watched hockey, and also played golf.
Those who knew and loved Rob will deeply miss him and cherish their fond memories of time spent with him. Rob’s most recent boss, Joe Wilkins, and his co-workers will especially miss his warmth, kindness, camaraderie, and friendship.
Rob is survived by one daughter, Shaleen Kulakowski, and three grandchildren, Scarlet, Emerson, and Asilyn, all of Sugar Grove, Illinois. He is also survived by his mother, Josephine Giacalone of Waupaca; three brothers, Rich (Theresa) Giacalone of Grand Haven, Michigan, and Vic (Vicky) Giacalone and Willy Giacalone of Waupaca; two sisters, Michelle Lara of Wausaukee and Linda Giacalone of Naples, Florida; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one brother, Peter Giacalone, and his father, John Giacalone.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church on Monday, December 11, 2023 at 11:00 AM. A visitation will be held at 10:00 AM until the time of service at church. Committal service and military honors will follow mass at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in the Town of Lanark.
AJ Holly & Sons Funeral Home in Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.
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