With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Robert Alan Palenik. Rob was a beloved Husband, Father, Grampy/PopPop. Brother, Uncle, and a friend to many.

Rob was born in Chicago, IL on July 21, 1954, and passed unexpectedly on April 24, 2026. Rob grew up in Antioch, IL on Lake Marie. He enjoyed working alongside his father at the family resort, Rudy's Resort. Rob graduated from Carmel Catholic High School in 1973 in Mundelein, IL. Rob went on to work at Quaker Industries in Antioch and then Harris Metals in Racine, WI.

Rob married Cheryl Cierocke on May 3, 1975 in Waukegan, IL. They lived in Wisconsin before moving to Florida in 1984. Rob worked for United Parcel Service for 32 years before his retirement in 2018. He loved so many things in his life, but loved the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, and Chicago Blackhawks.

Most of all, Rob loved his family wholeheartedly. Rob was survived by his wife of 50 years, Cheryl. He was a proud father to son Jeremy (Maria Zayco) and daughters Chrystie (Gary Disher), Courtney (Max Doyle), and Carrie (Ray Whiteman).

He leaves behind his granddaughters, Mackenzie, Hannah, Malia, Carmen, Isla, Cooper, Roxy, Logan, and Ezra; his grandsons Braden and Lennox; his loving siblings, Raymond (Jan), Laura (Michael), Lenore, Sue (John), and Mary (Tom).

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Lucille; his brother Rudy Jr., brothers-in-law Bill Henry and Steve Cierocke; and his in-laws, Roy and Joan Moxey.

A celebration of Rob's life will be honored at the Celtic Ray in Punta Gorda, one of his favorite places, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 1:00-4:00 pm.