Robert Fiocchi

Robert Gene Fiocchi, of Lake Forest, passed away at 89 years old with family by his side, on July 9th, 2022. He was born in Waukegan, IL on December 15th, 1932, and was a devoted husband to his wife of 65 years, Joanne, who preceded him in death in 2019. He was a much-loved father of Laurie Ann Brumbaugh, Cindy Kaye Graham, and Melanie Lynn Fiocchi and devoted sons-in-law, William Graham and Terry Brumbaugh. He was also a proud Grandpa to Charles Ryan Cole and his fiancée Kristin Howe, and Megan Graham and Kristin Graham. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Jennie Fiocchi and his brother, Marvin Fiocchi, all from Highwood. He is survived by his loving sister, Madreen Karle (Thomas) of Niles, MI and his many nieces, nephews and godchildren that brought so much joy to his life. After graduating from Highland Park High School, Robert was drafted and signed by the Philadelphia Phillies organization as a top pitching prospect. He traveled the country and Canada playing professional baseball. Baseball was his first love…until he met his wife Joanne while playing in Owensboro, Kentucky. As newlyweds, baseball took them to Salt Lake City, a place they grew to love. While playing baseball, he was called to serve his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. After his service, he resumed his playing career until it was cut short by injury. After baseball, they settled in Owensboro where he worked the night shift at General Electric, carried a full load of classes at Kentucky Wesleyan College, and had a newborn daughter and one on the way. His hard work paid off when he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He continued to support his alma mater throughout his life. With college behind him, he moved his family closer to home in Waukegan where he accepted a Sales position at Abbott Laboratories. His next career move was his last when he joined UARCO Inc. where he excelled in Executive Sales Management roles until retirement. His favorite activity was his garden where he created beautiful spaces for his friends and family to enjoy. His gardens were a work of art, always changing with time and the seasons and always a place he loved to be. He was a lifetime Cubs fan and never missed a chance to cheer them on. A service will be held at Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home, 1787 Deerfield Road, Highland Park on Friday, July 15th at 11:00 am. Interment at Lake Forest Cemetery, 1525 N. Lake Road following the service. In lieu of flowers, he would be honored to have donations made in his memory to: Kentucky Wesleyan College, Office of Advancement, 3000 Frederica St., Owensboro, KY 42301, or www.kwc.edu/give. For information or directions, please contact Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home, 847-831-4260 or www.kelleyspaldingfuneralhome.com