Robert Joseph Kalinoski, born September 7, 1929, in St. Louis, MO, passed away peacefully on Sunday October 12, 2025 at Degreef Hospice House. Bob and his family were members of St. Catherine Laboure Parish for many years. He was then an active member of St. George’s Church before moving to Our Lady of Life Retirement Community where he was a daily mass attendee, sang in the choir and was a lay assistant.
Bob’s work career spanned several decades at Wayside Market in Clayton and the Sappington Garden Shop on Gravois. He was always friendly and helpful with all his customers and made lasting friendships with his fellow workers.
“Big Daddy”, aged 96, was a lover of family, sports, music, dance, and a loyal Notre Dame subway alumnus. He was able to travel across the U.S. to visit his children and grandchildren, with special trips to Australia and Ireland. He was an avid fisherman, bridge, and poker player, and excelled at ping pong, horseshoes and wiffle ball at family gatherings.
Bob served in the military during the Korean war while stationed at numerous army bases. He was preceded in death by his parents and 7 siblings, second wife Patricia Wolf, son Michael, and grandson Griffin. He is survived by his children Linda (Mike) Klein, Steve (Ellen), Rob (Donna), Kal (Bobbi), Sue (Mike) Donze, 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Living life to the fullest with a great sense of humor, and an active fan of his entire generational family, relatives, and friends, Bob captured the joy of life and was guided by his faith. Everyone was his favorite. Keep on dancing.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to Catholic Charities of St. Louis are greatly appreciated.
SERVICES: Funeral from KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL (10151 Gravois Rd., 63123) on Tuesday, Ocotober 21, 9:30 AM to St. Catherine Laboure Church (9740 Sappington Rd., 63128) for 10:00 AM Mass. Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Visitation on Monday, October 20, from 4:00 – 8:00 PM.
OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO U AND U R FAMILY