Robert (Bob) L. Kono, age 73, of Manitowoc, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at his home.
Bob was born May 19, 1952, in Manitowoc, to the late Lester and Irene (Bartels) Kono. He attended schools in Two Rivers and graduated from Washington High School with the class of 1970. Bob co-owned and operated Kono’s Bar with his mother and later was employed at Point Beach Nuclear Plant in Radiation Protection until his retirement. Bob was married to Dar Posen (Meidl) on May 22, 2009, in Manitowoc.
Bob enjoyed fishing, gambling, and had a great sense of humor. He always lived life to the fullest and knew how to have a good time. Bob was a member of the Eagle’s Club in Manitowoc.
Bob is survived by his wife of 16 years: Darlene Kono; two step-children: Kelly Lopez and Adam Meidl; five step-grandchildren: Miguel Lopez, Jose Mareno, Yasmine Mareno, Jaxen Meidl, Blake Meidl; one step-great grandson: Neithan; four siblings: Julie (Don) Brooks, Mary (Mike) Malek, John (Eileen) Kono, Barbara Distasio; sister-in-law: Linda Kono; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Deb Kalbes, David (Ellie) Posen, Diane (Terry) DeBenedetto, Douglas (Lisa) Posen, Donna Posen (Jeff Hibbard), Darrell Posen (Tami Rouse), Dennis (Nicole) Posen; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends also survive.
He was preceded in death by his two children: Daniel and Nicole Kono; his parents; two brothers and a sister-in-law: Lester (Boy) Kono and William (Lynn) Kono; sister-in-law: Dawn Fuller; and brother-in-law: Farron Kalbes.
A Life Celebration will be held for Bob on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Eagle’s Club, 823 Hamilton Street, Manitowoc.
Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.
Bob’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Sharon S. Richardson Hospice, especially Samantha and McKayla.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
