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Robert Poggi Obituary
Born: February 8, 1932 in Ottawa, IL
Died: February 12, 2025 in Ottawa, IL
Robert Eugene Poggi, 93, of Ottawa, passed away Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at The Pavilion of Ottawa.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Ottawa Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation rites.
Robert was born February 8, 1932, in Ottawa, IL, to Eugene and Erma (Vicini) Poggi. He married Joan Seibert Castelli in 1985.
Bob graduated from Ottawa High School, served as a corpsman in the US Navy during the Korean War, and then went on to attend the University of Illinois where he attained his Master's degree. He continued to be a big U of I fan throughout his life. He became a teacher in 1959 and worked in the Ottawa Public Schools, earning the title as the head of the industrial arts department and assistant principal, until his retirement in 1990. He then worked part time teaching until 1991. During his time at OTHS, he also served as a track and wrestling coach. He taught night school at IVCC for many years. In his free time, he was a HAM radio operator, built many models, and enjoyed boating in Wisconsin. He was even the first person to put a radio inside a high school football helmet until it was later banned.
He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Joan Poggi; his sons, Robert (Martha) Poggi Jr., John Poggi, and James Poggi; his step daughters, Barb (Gary) Bellinger and Cathi (Dan) Grobe; 12 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Erma; and his grandson, John Robert Poggi.
Memorials may be directed to The Salvation Army.
The online guest book may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.ottawafuneralhome.com
Ottawa Funeral Home & Crematory
1111 LaSalle St, Ottawa Illinois 61350
815-433-0300
www.ottawafuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Poggi
Sponsored by Ottawa Funeral Home and Crematory.
5 Entries
Alconda Horton
February 18, 2025
Bob-o, was the name we called him at work, I´ve been at the pavilion for about seven months now and it was always a treat to chat and laugh with or at Bob´o. He was very comedic, but down to earth, and he would share a story or smile with anyone( except the X-ray guy... lol) .... I just loved him!!!! One day I came in to work not feeling like being there and I went to do cares for him and he said to me " Thank you for coming to work Today".... It made me feel so good to know I was appreciated!!! I couldn´t help but to love him after that!!!!
Eileen O'Heron
February 18, 2025
My husband and I got to know Bob through Gary and Barb Bellinger. We went to many Paramount plays together with Joan and Bob. Our sincere condolences to his family.
May his spirit and memories live on within you. Pat & Eileen O'Heron
Donald Battistelli
February 15, 2025
My condolences to Mr. Poggi´s family. It was an honor, knowing Mr. Poggi I would go visit him up at the Pavilion and we would tell stories and talk about sports and we laughed like hell he will be deeply missed rest in peace
Larry Thomas
February 15, 2025
Mr. Poggi was my shop teacher for all 4 years at OTHS (66-70) and one of my wrestling and track coaches.
He made an impact on my life that is still with me, to be true to myself, and that hard work pays off in many ways.
His gentle demeanor earned him the respect of my classmates and the countless lives he impacted.
My condolences to the family and friends - I know I have never forgotten him, and never will.
May Mr. Poggi rest in peace
The Staff of Ottawa Funeral Home
February 14, 2025
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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