Robert Maiolini

Robert John “Rob” Maiolini, 61, a resident of Fergus Falls, died Monday April 11, 2011, at the Lakeland Hospice House in Fergus Falls. He was born November 3, 1949, in Oakland, California, and was adopted by Frank and Kathryn (Aune) Maiolini. He first attended the First Presbyterian Church in San Leandro, California. Rob then attended Marina High School in San Leandro. During his high school years he worked on cars, and started skin and scuba diving, taking road trips to go diving, mainly up on the northern coast of California where it can get pretty rough. It was all the more challenge for Rob. He was very active in the Sea Explorers, working on the various boats. He participated in the many challenges at the regattas where a number of Sea Explorer “ships” would gather and compete in old and current seafaring tasks such as “lifting the scuttle-butt” and rescuing an individual from a ship grounded just off the beach. Rob was always very creative. One time he bought an early ‘60s Ford Econoline van at an auction. He then set out and removed the 6-cylinder engine and installed a V-8, and converted the interior into a compact Winnebago all by himself. When it came to getting a car, Rob didn’t just get any old car. No, he got a black Alfa Romao sport coupe with an all aluminum body. Absolutely first class! He was a sculptor in his own right as well. One item in particular was a beautifully carved jade cat. In the summer of 1968, just after graduating high school, Rob joined the U. S. Navy. He attended Chabot College, the local junior college, kept diving (mainly in the ocean), and visited friends and attended concerts until his deployment. During his service he was stationed on Guam. After the stint in the service, Rob became focused on his tile and flooring business, and it was not uncommon to hear customers describe his jobs as being “unique, beautiful, and innovative”. Without a doubt, he could do anything he put his mind to. After moving to Minnesota in 1991, he owned and operated RM Interiors/Otter Tile. During his free time he enjoyed golfing and watching NASCAR. Preceding him in death were his grandparents, Adolph and Angel Maiolini, and John and Inga Aune, and his mother, Kathryn Maiolini. Survivors include his wife, Merilee, of Fergus Falls; three children: Kelly (Travis) Leavitt, Benjamin (Amy) Aune, and Shawna Saylor;  five grandchildren: Logen Leavitt, Joseph, Keara and Aliana Aune, and Deja Saylor; and his father, Frank Maiolini.  In the summer of 1993, Rob attended a Promise Keeper’s event that started him on his journey of faith with his Lord. Throughout the years he attended several more Promise Keepers events to strengthen his commitment. He was a man of faith and prayer. There will be a Memorial and Sharing Service held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 15, 2011, at Hilltop Celebration Church in Fergus Falls with Pastor Dan Mueller officiating, with Military Participation by the Fergus Falls American Legion and VFW. There will be a private family interment at Rindal Cemetery, rural Underwood. Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls is in charge of arrangements.