In Loving Memory of Robert Sicilian

February 18,1950 – January 25,2026

Robert John Sicilian, 75, of Tucson, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning January 25,2026, surrounded by his family. Born in New York City, to Jean and Joseph Sicilian, he was one of three children. Bob was very proud of his heritage and the family business he grew up with.

Bob was a graduate of Holy Cross High School in Queens, New York in 1966, and attended the University of Arizona on a football scholarship. It was there he met the love of his life, and fell in love with Tucson as well. Bob married Joan Jefferson Sicilian on March 25,1972.

Bob was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, community volunteer and a friend to so many. He was always there to offer guidance, love and laughter. His family was his pride and lifelong joy. Celebrating to gather for family birthdays, graduations and their wedding anniversaries was the most joyful times he valued.

As a mentor to many, Bob was a biology high school teacher and coach. To many, he was known as “Coach Sicilian.” Coach Sicilian started his high school coaching and teaching career at Sabino high school in 1975. He was the head baseball coach at Sabino high school and subsequently became the head football coach. In 1990, he moved to Palo Verde High School where he was the head football coach there from 1990-1998, and the head baseball coach from 1992 through 1994. Bob loved teaching biology and mentoring students there just as much as he loved coaching. He was the offensive line coach when Palo Verde won the state championship in 2005. Coach Sicilian was known for explaining “The do right rule.” This meant do what you’re supposed to be doing, when you’re supposed to be doing it, with who you’re supposed to be doing it with. And last but not least, treat others the way you want to be treated. A lifelong Yankees fan, Bob also enjoyed the great outdoors; trips down the Colorado river and hiking nearly every week on Mt. Lemmon with his best friend, Bruce.

Preceded in death by his parents Jean and Joseph Sicilian, and brother Joseph Sicilian. He is survived by Joan his loving wife of 53 Years, son Jeffrey Joseph (JJ); daughter, Rene Therese; his grandchildren Kaylee Rene, Kiersten Paige, Frankie Joy, Maximillian Hudson, and Gianna Maria; his sister Karen Malachowsky and many nieces, nephews and friends who will miss him dearly.

Funeral mass to celebrate Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church, 1800 South Kolb Road, Tucson AZ 85710. Rosary 9:30am with Funeral Mass to follow at 10am. Friends and family are invited to a celebration and to share stories, laughter, and love in his honor immediately following in the Church Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to

St Vincent de Paul, through Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church, where he enjoyed being a volunteer.

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