Robert Yakowicz

Robert “Bob” Yakowicz "Yako", of Pecatonica, Illinois, passed away on July 2, 2024, at the University of Wisconsin Health SwedishAmerican Hospital. Bob passed away after a long battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving children and his best friend Ronnie.

Bob was born on May 13, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from Fenwick High
School and DePaul University. For several years, Yako ran the Main Tap, where he made lifelong friendships. He later worked at Ipsen Ceramics until his retirement. In addition to his professional career, Bob served in the National Guard.

Bob cherished his family and was known for being an amazing father who was always ready to lend a helping hand at a moment's notice. He frequently visited Arizona to spend quality time with his granddaughters and connect with his childhood friend, Rich Bernat. A lifelong football fan, Bob religiously attended the Chicago Bears' training camp in Platteville with his best friends Ronnie and Butch and his brother Jim. He also enjoyed fishing and gardening. Known for his constant smile, Bob could walk into a room of strangers and get to know them all before he left. Always ready with a joke, he will be deeply missed by those who loved him.

Bob is survived by his children, Jodi Yakowicz (Greg Sonneson), John Yakowicz (Kris
Yakowicz), Megan Harmeyer (Chris Hickenbottom); his grandchildren, Morganne
Underwood (Jon Underwood) and Emma Harmeyer (Russell Schumacher); his brother, Jim Yakowicz; his best friend Ronnie; as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his beloved son Daniel, his precious great grandson Bohen, his parents, Stephenie and Louis Yakowicz; and his sisters, Lois Wilkes and Bonnie Yakowicz.

A funeral mass for Bob will be held on July 20, 2024 at 11am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 126 W 5th Street, Pecatonica, IL. Following the mass, from 1pm-6pm, there will be a Celebration of Life at the American Legion, 403 Main Street, Pecatonica, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to UW Health (https://www.wiscmedicine.org) in Bob’s name. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Einhorn, Dr. Zeater, Butch Boomer & Jerry Janssen for all of their help and support.