Robert M. Stolich

Robert M. Stolich passed away on August 29, 2024. Born in Watsonville on May 30, 1939, Robert graduated from Watsonville High School and later attended Hartnell College. Robert served 6 years in the Army National Guard and received an Honorable Discharge in 1962.

Robert met his late wife, Donna, in 1960 while working in the banking industry. Often, he would tell people "The first time I saw her I told my friends, I'm going to marry her." For him, it was love at first sight. He carried her engagement picture with him, in his wallet, every day of his life. They married in St. Patrick Church on April 8,1961. In October of 2020, Donna passed away after a brief illness. Robert cherished the fact that from his home he could look out the window every day and see the Valley Catholic Church and the cemetery where his beloved wife was buried.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Sandra Stolich, and her husband, Brack Zollo, and grandchildren Katie, Brice, and Grant Zollo of Ukiah, California. His son, Mark Stolich, wife, Sonia, and grandson, Marcos Stolich of Sonoma, California. Robert leaves behind his brother, Jon Stolich and wife, Barbara of Nampa, Idaho.

Robert was a truck driver and proud to be a Teamster member. He often shared stories of his days driving the local truck routes for Gallo Wine Sales and General Produce. In his early retirement years, he was a seasonal driver for Bargetto Winery. He enjoyed watching sports, especially baseball and basketball.

In his last couple of weeks Robert said he really missed his morning coffee at the Red Apple and the lively conversation with his friends regarding the scores from the previous day's games.

The family is extremely grateful for Myrna Smith from Faith Home Care Inc. for sending Mia and Shirley to assist with Robert's care. These ladies were truly caring, kind, and professional in their duties. To the staff of Hospice of Santa Cruz County, God bless you for the dedication and professional work you do to support the patient and the family. Monica, Gabriella, Gloria, Michael and many other nursing and support staff who were a part of Robert's care, the family extends a huge and heartfelt Thank You! To Father Joseph from Camp St. Francis, thank you for taking time to visit Robert, too.

The family will gather for a private graveside memorial. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice of Santa Cruz County or Camp St. Francis. Mehl's Colonial Chapel was entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Published in The Pajaronian · September 30, 2024