Robert “Bob” A. Calgaro, 67, of Rockford, was called home to be with the Lord on September 9, 2021 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, after a brief illness. Born April 20, 1954 in Rockford, the son of John & Mary (Valente) Calgaro. Graduate of Boylan Central Catholic High School, class of 1972. He completed his undergraduate education at Northwestern University then earning his Juris Doctor, Magna Cum Laude from the University of Illinois. He was a life long member of St. Anthony of Padua Parish and an active member and supporter of the Venetian Club.
Robert was totally devoted to his family, especially his children. Born to Robert and Brenda, the triplets Courtney, Ashley and Jordan were truly the light of his life, his pride and joy. He was the proudest father, always excited to share in their successes and achievements.
Bob was an accomplished attorney for 43 years, specializing in corporate and real estate law. He began his career as an Associate at Pedderson, Menzimer, Conde, Stoner & Killoren Law Firm in Rockford, later to be partner in the law firm of Bueschel & Calgaro. He was extremely passionate about his work. Over the last year, he enjoyed reconnecting with many fellow attorneys and long time friends for their Tuesday nights at Stone Eagle.
Many of his happiest times were trips taken with his family. Those close to him knew of the many trips (and near obsession) to Walt Disney World. He enjoyed family trips to Boston, New York, Washington D.C., Door County and weekends spent in Milwaukee.
Bob was always eager to learn. Always ready for a game of Trivial Pursuit, always the winner. He was the grill master, cooking in rain or snow for himself, his family or a party. He was an avid reader, enjoyed live theater, always up for a spontaneous activity, and spending every evening on his long and pensive walks.
He had a wonderful sense of humor. A quiet and reserved disposition, but when he spoke it was from the heart. He never said no. His genuine kindness and endless generosity were truly unmatched. Bob’s last selfless act was to be an organ and tissue donor with Gift of Hope Donor Network.
Survivors include children Courtney Calgaro and Jordan Calgaro (Michael Ramos); special companion Helen Pollard; brother Rev. John J. Calgaro, OFM Conv.; Former wife, Brenda (Cascio) Calgaro; dearest friend and sister-in-law Denise (Danny) Wood, and numerous members of the Calgaro, Cascio, Phippen and Masso families. Predeceased by daughter Ashley; parents John and Mary Calgaro; and former in-laws Carl and Genevieve “Rikki” Cascio.
The family would like to thank the staff at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center for their care and support.
Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 a.m Saturday, September 18, 2021 at St. Anthony of Padua Parish, 1010 Ferguson St., Rockford, IL, with the Franciscan Friars officiating. Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. followed by a rosary Friday, September 17, 2021 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel. 3910 N. Rockton Ave, Rockford, IL. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Send online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.
Friday, September 17, 2021
5:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)
Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory - Riverside Chapel
Rosary will be recited at 7pm
Saturday, September 18, 2021
Starts at 10:00 am (Eastern time)
St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church
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