Robert John Kalish

Robert "Bob" John Kalish, a proud Air Force veteran and loving family man, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, at the age of 82. Born in Passaic, New Jersey, on November 8, 1942, to Helen and Stanley Kalish, Bob's life was defined by his love for his family, his country, his passion for flying, and his spirit for adventure.
After graduating from Clifton High School in 1960, Bob earned a degree in Biology from William Paterson University in 1964. While stationed in Valdosta, Georgia, he met his future wife, Mary Ann Dargel. The two were married in San Leandro, California, in 1967. The couple eventually settled in Plantation, Florida, where they raised their two children, Traci and Jeff.
As their children grew up and moved away, Bob and Mary Ann continued their journey together, living in Vero Beach for five years, followed by five years in Jacksonville, Florida. They later spent time in Dacula, Georgia, before settling in Clermont, Florida, where Bob assisted his son Jeff with his construction company.
An accomplished pilot, Bob was commissioned into the Air Force in September 1964. He flew the B-52 bomber and completed a tour of duty in Southeast Asia. Following his active service, he continued his dedication as a reservist in Homestead, Florida, starting in 1971. He went on to fly the EC-121 and later became certified to fly the F-4 Phantom, a supersonic, multi-role fighter jet. He retired in 1988 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, concluding a decorated career that reflected his unwavering commitment to service.
After retiring from his career in construction, Bob and Mary Ann embarked on a new chapter, traveling the United States together in a 5th wheel from 2010 to 2018. It was a time filled with new sights and treasured memories. A lifelong history buff, Bob enjoyed nothing more than learning about the past. He was also a devoted fan of Jeopardy!, which he watched nightly at 7:00 p.m. without fail.
Bob's life was a testament to his dedication, discipline, and the quiet devotion he held for his family. He will be remembered for his love of flying, his sense of adventure, and the unwavering love he showed his wife and family.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Mary Ann; his daughter, Traci Kalish Autera; and his granddaughter, Alexis Nicole Autera.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Stanley Kalish; his son, Jeffrey Franklin Kalish (2009); and his grandson, Dylan John Autera (2021).
A Military Funeral Honors ceremony will be held at Busnell National Cemetery on March 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert John Kalish, please visit our flower store.