St. John’s Mourns the Passing of Robert “Bob” F. Kalenka ’84CBA, ’91MBA, ’24HON, Board Emeritus

May 21, 2024

St. John’s mourns the passing of Robert “Bob” F. Kalenka ’84CBA, ’91MBA, ’24HON, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 19. A graduate of The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, Bob served on the Board of Governors and later served on the Board of Trustees from 2015 until 2023. In February, the Board of Trustees conferred upon him the title of Board Emeritus.

“St. John’s has lost a beloved member of our community,” said Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., President of St. John’s. “Bob was a proud alumnus, valued Trustee, and generous benefactor who gave back to St. John’s in many ways. Not only did he serve the University with distinction, but he hired countless St. John’s graduates. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Corinne; daughters Kristie (Rick) and Kelly (Andrew); grandchildren Aubrey and Madison; and the entire Kalenka family.”

Bob was a loyal friend and valued leader of the St. John’s community and maintained strong ties with alma mater. He was a member of the Founder’s Society, an avid supporter of the Fr. Dorr Golf Classic, was involved with The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, particularly the Executive-in-Residence Program, and enthusiastically cheered for St. John’s Athletics as a member of the Red White Club, a season ticket holder and the proud parent of a cheerleader. His generosity and commitment to students was reflected in the establishment of the Kalenka Family Endowed Scholarship to support students in Tobin.

St. John’s previously honored Bob with the Outstanding Alumni Achievement Medal, the Pietas Medal, and the Spirit of Service Award. This month, the University conferred upon Bob the honorary degree of Doctor of Commercial Science.

Please keep Bob’s family in your thoughts and prayers.

Visitation
Weigand Brothers, Inc., Funeral Home, 49 Hillside Avenue, Williston Park, NY 11596
Wednesday, May 22
4–7 p.m.

Funeral Mass
Church of St. Aidan, 505 Willis Avenue, Williston Park, NY 11596
Thursday, May 23
10 a.m.

Followed by interment at St. Charles Cemetery, 2015 Wellwood Avenue, Farmingdale, NY 11735.

Donations in memory of Bob may be made to Kalenka Family Endowed Scholarship

Expressions of sympathy be sent to

St. John’s University, Office of the President
8000 Utopia Parkway, Newman Hall, Third Floor, Queens, NY 11439

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