Robert Michael "Bob" Katolin, age 80, longtime resident of California and South Carolina, passed away Sunday, September 8, 2013 in Laguna Niguel.

Bob was born April 20, 1933 in Los Angeles, California to Michael and Hilda Katolin. He grew up in El Monte, California and graduated from El Monte High School where he played sports. Bob served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Princeton and fought in the Korean War. He had a long and distinguished career with Jayar Manufacturing as a Master Cabinet Maker. After retirement, Bob and his wife Norma spent 18 years in Fort Mill, South Carolina before returning to California in 2006.

Bob enjoyed weight training, sports (especially football and NASCAR), horseshoes, working in his yard, carpentry, reading, and had a passion for history. Bob had a gift for helping others and was generous with his time. He was devoted to his family, his dogs Sugar and Minnie, and enjoyed spending time with all of them.

Bob is survived by his wife of 58 years, Norma, his son Michael Ross Katolin, daughter Lisa Ann Katolin-Licavoli, granddaughter Amber Noel Smigel, grandsons Ryan Michael Lee, Riley Michael Katolin, Taylor James Katolin, Beau Preston Katolin and great-granddaughter Ariana Ryene Lee.

Bob's greatest strength was his ability to love, protect and care for his family. His strong character, stories (nobody could tell a story like Bob could), and humor will be so missed by his loved ones and friends.

A "Celebration of Life" will be held for Bob at a later date.