Lasting Memories

Robert J. Kragen
Aug. 9, 1939-June 2, 2025
Lincoln, California

Robert J. Kragen (formerly Krygowski) of Lincoln, beloved husband of Sharon Kragen (nee Wade), passed away June 2 at the age of 85. Cherished son of the late John J. Krygowski and the late Stephanie R. Krygowski; admired father of four sons, Kevin, Greg, Jeff (Kathleen) and Mark (Rebecca) and their mother, Barbara Pelletier (nee Wilke); loving stepfather of Eric Slichter, Jennifer Ryther and the late Kim Gigliotti; cherished grandfather of 10, step-grandfather of seven and great grandfather of two; dear brother of the late Patricia Krasowski (late Joseph, former state senator of Illinois); fond uncle of many. Bob was born and raised in Chicago. He spent the first 32 years of his life in that area before his pharmaceutical sales career moved him and his family to upstate New York in 1971 and then on to Pleasanton in 1973. Bob and Sharon then moved to Lincoln in 2005 where they developed many great friendships in their retirement community. Sports and music were two life-long passions. Bob excelled as a recreation league football and basketball icon who could hit an occasional straight drive on the golf course. Later, he coached his boys in baseball, basketball and football. He played saxophone in the high school band, dabbled in bands afterwards and later in life enjoyed listening to jazz, smoking cigars with friends and his two monthly poker groups. Bob was forever proud of his Polish, Southside-of-Chicago roots.