Robert ” Bob” Zaccone November 12, 1943 – May 12, 2026
Visitation Monday May 18th, From 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Palos Gaidas Funeral Home, 11028 South Southwest Highway Palos Hills Illinois 60465. Celebration of Life Service 7:00 PM. Bob will be laid to rest alongside his beloved Mary Lou at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in a private service at a later date.
In lieu of flowers The Zaccone Family kindly asks that you consider a memorial donation in Bob’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Please use the link provided. https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=home-btn-donate-now Please use his daughter Janine’s email for the notification. Janinezulanas@yahoo.com
For information please call or text Michael Orrico @ 815/260-0668
Robert “Bob” Zaccone a man of immense strength, dedication, and heart, passed away peacefully surrounded by the family he spent a lifetime building and protecting. Born on November 12, 1943, to Joseph Anthony Zaccone and Ann Helen Zaccone (nee Holecek) , Bob lived a life defined by hard work and an unshakeable commitment to his community.
A Legacy of Service and Hard Work: Bob was a man who understood the value of a day’s work. He spent 28 years with Polk Brothers as a carpet installer, a trade that required precision and physical grit. Following his tenure there, he dedicated another 15 years to Illinois American Water, continuing his streak of reliable service and professional integrity. Beyond his professional life, Bob’s true passion lay in mentorship. He was the founder and head coach of the Hickory Hills Park District wrestling program, where he spent 20 years shaping the lives of young athletes. He didn’t just teach them how to wrestle; he taught them about discipline, resilience, and the importance of showing up.
A Kid at Heart: While Bob was known for his toughness on the wrestling mats, those closest to him knew his softer, more playful side. He was a notorious “baby hog”; if there was an infant at a family gathering, Bob would immediately claim them, holding them for the duration of the party and rarely feeling the need to share.
He also possessed a legendary sweet tooth. Bob was rarely out of arm’s reach of his favorite Fannie May candies, a small indulgence that matched his generous spirit. These moments, a baby in his arms and a piece of chocolate nearby, defined the joy he found in the simple things.
Family and Devotion: Bob was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife Mary Lou Zaccone (nee Orrico). He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law Mario Orrico and his wife Sally Orrico (nee Arrigo). He is survived by his brother, Ronald Zaccone, and his wife, Lorrie, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. His legacy continues through his four children and their families: Joseph Zaccone and his wife, Laura; and their sons, Domenic and Joseph. Janine Zulanas and her husband, Steve; and their children, Liza, Jake, and Lauren.Jorie Guch and her husband, Chris; and her sons, Joe, Jason, and Jon. Jennifer Annel and her husband, Vince; and their children, Vanessa and Vinny. “A coach is someone who tells you what you don’t want to hear, so you can see what you want to be.”
Bob Zaccone will be remembered as a cornerstone of the Hickory Hills community, man with calloused hands and a kind soul. His lessons in the wrestling room and his devotion to his family will never be forgotten. All arrangements entrusted to Orrico Kourelis Funeral Services inc.