Robert Joseph Beretta

1935 - 2026

Robert Joseph Beretta

June 14, 1935 - February 1, 2026

Carmichael, California - Robert Joseph "Bob" Beretta, 90, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026, in Carmichael, California. A small graveside service will take place at the San Luis Cemetery in San Luis Obispo, California, at a later date.

Born on June 14, 1935, in Bakersfield, California, to Joseph and Edith Beretta, Bob was raised in San Luis Obispo, where he attended Mission Grammar School and Mission High School. A dedicated student and natural leader from a young age, he was selected as a delegate to California Boys State in 1952. He continued his education at Hartnell Community College, graduating in 1959, and went on to earn his degree from Fresno State in 1961.

In 1962, Bob married Karen Kay Springer of Aurora, Illinois. Together, they built a life rooted in family and service. Though Karen preceded him in death, their legacy continues through their children: John Beretta and his wife, Val of Dumont, Colorado; and Katherine Beretta-Tedrick and her husband, David of Sacramento, California.

Bob served his country honorably during the Korean War as a member of the 25th Infantry stationed in Hawaii. Following his military service, he embarked on a long and distinguished career as a tax professional with the Federal Government and later transitioned into self-employment, totaling over three decades. His commitment to public service extended beyond his profession-he served as vice-president of the National Treasury Employees Union in San Jose and was an active community leader throughout his life.

In Salinas during the 1990s, Bob managed boxers and co-owned the Dakota Corral Club. His passion for leadership also led him to serve as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus in Salinas and later as president of the Lions Club in Aurora, Nebraska.

A devout Catholic throughout his life, Bob faithfully attended weekly mass at his local parish. His faith was a guiding force that shaped both his personal values and community involvement. To know Bob was to know kindness in action. He was the friend who showed up during long illnesses with quiet strength and steady support, or offered his assistance to friends during exhausting days of moving homes with willing hands and a sturdy truck. He understood that being present was the greatest gift you could give, and he gave it generously.

Bob had a deep love for sports. He was an avid fan of the San Francisco Giants and the San Francisco 49ers. He also cheered passionately for the Fresno State Bulldogs and the Nebraska Cornhuskers-teams that reflected both his roots and the places he called home.

Bob never missed any of his children's sporting events, from supporting John through Judo and wrestling, to Kathy with track and cheerleading. Bob was endlessly proud of his children, cherishing every milestone and memory. His love was constant, his advice steady, and his presence reassuring.

John and Kathy will cherish the memories of sitting with their dad, sharing a glass of wine, listening to ACDC or Queen on the radio, and engaging in lively conversations about alien life and the mysteries of the universe.

In 2006, Bob moved to Aurora, Nebraska, with Karen, where he spent thirteen wonderful years before relocating to Citrus Heights, California.

He is lovingly remembered by his brother, William Beretta of Salinas; niece, Jennifer Beretta; grand-nephew, Jake Beretta; the Guggia cousins in Santa Maria, California, and countless friends.

He will be most remembered for his dedication as a devoted friend, loving husband and father, with a quiet sense of humor and a generous nature that helped others in need. All those whose lives were touched by his warmth and dedication will hold Bob dear to their hearts.

May Robert Joseph Beretta's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire acts of service and devotion.