Robert Poggi

Robert Eugene Poggi, 93, of Ottawa, passed away Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at The Pavilion of Ottawa.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Ottawa Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation rites.

Robert was born February 8, 1932, in Ottawa, IL, to Eugene and Erma (Vicini) Poggi. He married Joan Seibert Castelli in 1985.

Bob graduated from Ottawa High School, served as a corpsman in the US Navy during the Korean War, and then went on to attend the University of Illinois where he attained his Master's degree. He continued to be a big U of I fan throughout his life. He became a teacher in 1959 and worked in the Ottawa Public Schools, earning the title as the head of the industrial arts department and assistant principal, until his retirement in 1990. He then worked part time teaching until 1991. During his time at OTHS, he also served as a track and wrestling coach. He taught night school at IVCC for many years. In his free time, he was a HAM radio operator, built many models, and enjoyed boating in Wisconsin. He was even the first person to put a radio inside a high school football helmet until it was later banned.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Joan Poggi; his sons, Robert (Martha) Poggi Jr., John Poggi, and James Poggi; his step daughters, Barb (Gary) Bellinger and Cathi (Dan) Grobe; 12 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Erma; and his grandson, John Robert Poggi.

Memorials may be directed to the Salvation Army.