Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Robert Rakela Obituary
October 30, 1939 - August 6, 2022
Sacramento, California - Robert "Bob" Rakela, a first generation Sacramentan born at Sutter Memorial Hospital to Peter and Madelyn Rakela. Bob attended Sacred Heart Elementary School, Christian Brothers High School, and Sacramento City College. In 1960, Bob wed his sweetheart, Roberta(Berta) Roberts, married over 55 years. He served in the US Army before returning to Sacramento and proceeded to lead a successful career in graphic design. In 1976, Bob and Berta purchased and renovated a 1900 Victorian home where they lived for over 30 years.
Bob had a great love for Sacramento and served on the Sacramento Building Preservation Board for 44 years and Friends of Sacramento Memorial Auditorium Board. Bob was an artist, a hippy, a burner, a storyteller (and reteller), an entrepreneur, a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a friend. Survived by his daughter Eden Saalsaa (David), son Jason and four grandchildren–Breana, Olivia, Chloe, and William. He lived a long, prosperous life, and his many stories and big ideas will be greatly missed. Bob & Bert's final wishes will be carried out at a private ceremony in Santa Cruz where most summers were spent for three generations.
We'd love for you to join us in celebrating Bob's love for life.
Location: Memorial Auditorium "Little Theater"
Date: Sunday, 12/18
Time: 2:00-4:00pm
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Rakela
Steve Murphy
December 17, 2022
God Bless Bob and Bert. He was my oldest and best friend since 1965. A great guy and spectacular artist. Sorry I can't be there in person but I will be there in spirit.
Steve Murphy in Anaconda MT
John Richard Domingo and Naomi Jeannette McCune-Domingo
December 9, 2022
John Richard Domingo and Naomi Jeannette McCune-Domingo
December 9, 2022
John Richard Domingo and Naomi Jeannette McCune-Domingo
December 9, 2022
John Richard Domingo and Naomi Jeannette McCune-Domingo
December 9, 2022
To 'celebrate' Bob's life at the Memorial Auditorium is sooo appropriate as is his and Berts final resting place.
Back in the mid 40's, my Mom, Opal, would load up the car with us (my sister Kathryn and me) and my cousins, brothers Bob (rip) and David (rip) Rakela and whisk us away for a 2-week vacation at Kelley's Cottages, 1 block away from the 'boardwalk' in Santa Cruz. She did this for several summers. Great memories
Mike Pankey
December 4, 2022
I will always remember Bob giving me my first ride on the big dipper in Santa Cruz when I was a child. It was during the time he and my father worked together at GBC&E around 1960.
Nancy
December 3, 2022
My employer for eight years, my friend forever. Miss you Bob.
Todd Setzer
December 3, 2022
RIP Bob, you were a good guy, always enjoyed being around you. Glad to see a remembrance gathering, you deserve it.
Robyn Dahlgren
December 3, 2022
Bob was our neighbor and friend for more than 14 years. He was also like a second grandfather to our son. He, and his many stories, will be very much missed.
Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results
Make a Donation
in Robert Rakela's name
Memorial Events
for Robert Rakela
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Robert Rakela's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
