Rodney L. "Rod" Kalata's Obituary
Rodney L. Kalata, age 65, of Oshkosh, passed away after a long hard battle with cancer. He was a Ripon High School Graduate of Class of 79. Rod enlisted in the military right after high school making it a 20 year career 1979-1999. During his service Rod toured many countries. Two tours in Saudi Arabia, Desert Storm, as a member of the MALS 12 Logistics Team (marauders), Desert Shield, MALS-29 Logistics Squad. Rod also served on the USS Enteprise and the USS Saipan. After retiring from the military Rod went on to get his bachelor's degree and master's degree's. Rod was currently working for Fox Valley Metrology. Rod became a devoted volunteer member of the DAV Chapter 17 (past commander). He was a volunteer for the DAV Department of Finance committeeman 2018-2021. Rod was also a member of the American Legion and the VFW. Rod was a very devoted uncle to his nephew and niece's. Rod was always on the go. Shooting pool, dart league, car shows, playing cards, his favorite was UNO house rules during the holidays. Rod helped organize family reunions for a very large extended family. Cousins breakfast for as many people who could show up.
He is survived by and his memory will be cherished by a brother, Melvin Kalata; a sister, Ann and James Abraham; nephew, Jeromy and Debbie Dahlke; nieces, Kathy and Wayne Robertson, Laura Kalata, Crystal and Patrick Fabar, Angela and Joey Machovec, Krista and Jeromy Lutz; great-nieces and great nephews, other relatives and many very dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Juanita Kalata; a brother, Kenneth Kalata; many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Memorial services will be held on May 17, 2025 at 11 am in the Lake View Memorial Park Chapel, 2786 Algoma Blvd. Oshkosh. A time of visitation will be held from 9 am until the time of service. Full military honors with flag presentation to Jeromy Dahlke will follow the service. Cremation has take place with the assistance of the Fiss & Bills-Poklasny Funeral Home and Crematory.
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