Robert "Bob" Canales passed away peacefully the evening of January 24th, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 40 years Donna Canales, his daughter Molly, son-in-law Dylan and grandson Leonardo "Leo."
Born on November 20, 1952 in San Jose, CA, Bob was a beloved member of a large family including parents Maria and Manuel Canales, brothers Alex, Manuel, Paul, Peter and Mel, and sisters Josie, Petra, Della and Esther. He is also survived by his sister Geraldine "Geri." He always recalled fond memories of his siblings and loved to be "Uncle Bob" to his more than 25 nieces and nephews, as well as cousins and extended family members. He married Donna on August 10, 1985 after meeting years earlier on a blind date. Molly was born in 1989 and both Bob and Donna shared immense pride in their daughter, always providing endless, loving support towards her goals and accomplishments.
Bob spent many years in San Jose as a journeyman clerk for various grocery stores, taking pride in his work and sharing cherished memories and relationships with colleagues while also caring for his family. You could often find him golfing, playing poker, enjoying some tunes, talking cars or the best new movies, sharing a great meal and cheering for the USC Trojans after his daughter attended college at the University of Southern California. He relocated to Southern California in 2022 to be near his grandson Leo. Bob was a prominent figure in Leo's life, and Leo will carry on the love and humor he learned from his special relationship with "Bobby" for years to come. Bob was excitedly expecting his granddaughter as well, arriving March 2026. Bob holds a special place in all of our hearts and will be greatly missed for his humor, ability to connect with people, and the devotion he shared for his friends and family.
Bob's family will hold a celebration of life later this year or early next year in his honor. Donna, Molly and Dylan would like to express their sincere gratitude for all of the kindness, support and happy memories shared from Bob's incredible network of friends and family in recent days.