Kale R. Kakac

Kale Robert Kakac, 48, of Highland, Illinois, passed away on October 18, 2026. He was born on March 25, 1978, in Festus, Missouri, to Robert L. and JoAn S. (née Tipsword) Kakac.

Kale was raised in Alhambra, Illinois, and graduated from Highland High School in 1996. He worked various jobs before beginning a career driving for Schneider, which brought him to Green Bay, Wisconsin. He made Wisconsin his home for more than twenty years, working various jobs and forming lasting friendships. During those years, he married Lori, and although their marriage ended in divorce, they remained friends until his passing.

In April 2025, Kale returned to Illinois and lived with his sister, LaDonna, until his declining health required additional care at Highland Healthcare.

Kale never knew a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and always had an arsenal of jokes ready to share. He was an animal lover whose compassion extended to creatures of every kind, firmly believing they were all God’s creatures and deserving of kindness.

His strong faith brought him comfort throughout his life, especially during his final years. His family takes comfort in knowing he is now at peace, free from pain and suffering.

He is survived by his parents, Robert L. and JoAn S. Kakac of Quincy, Illinois; his sisters, Melora (Darin) Dunnagan of Arkansas and LaDonna (Don) Utley of Trenton, Illinois; and his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews: Courtney Essner (Will), Andrew Ethridge, Kadyn Dunnagan (Devin), great-nephew David de Clercq, Tate, Racyn and Della Dunnagan, Brandon Parker (T. Pratama), great-niece Nina Parker, and Noah Karpan (Karli).

He is also survived by his former wife, Lori Kakac; his stepdaughter, Julia (Tyler) Brusky, and her children, William and Faith Brusky; and many other loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert A. and Vendina Kakac, and Julius and Selma Tipsword.

A private burial will be held, with a memorial gathering planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family (payable to LaDonna Utley) to assist with cremation and burial expenses, and received or mailed to Moss Funeral Home, 1501 9th St., Highland, IL 62249, which is serving the family. The family deeply appreciates your kindness and support during this difficult time.