Rockford “Rocky” Larry McCaleb, 69, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at home in the loving arms of his wife after a short battle with cancer.
He was born on November 21, 1956, in Rochester to Elaine (Perky) and Larry “Tuffy” McCaleb. Aside from time spent pursuing his education and boxing in Miami, FL and Minneapolis, MN, he lived his entire life in the Rochester area.
Rocky graduated from John Marshall High School in 1975, where he played four years of football and helped lead the team to back-to-back AA State Football Championships in 1973 and 1974. Those who knew him understood that whether on the field or in the ring, Rocky’s determination and competitive spirit was unmatched.
Boxing was the rhythm of Rocky’s life. He laced up his first pair of gloves at just eight years old and went on to fight for 23 remarkable years. Under the coaching of his father, Larry “Tuffy” McCaleb, Rocky compiled an astonishing 126 amateur fights with 79 victories. Among his many proud achievements were defeating an Olympic champion in May 1974, winning the Minnesota Upper Midwest Golden Gloves Heavyweight Division in 1976, and advancing to the quarterfinals of the National Golden Gloves. In 1976, Rocky turned professional under the management of Angelo Dundee, fighting 19 professional bouts with a record of 15-1-3.
Even after retiring from competition, Rocky’s love for boxing never faded. He dedicated 20 years to coaching at the Rochester Boxing Club, mentoring countless young athletes. In 1996, he and the club hosted Rochester’s first amateur boxing card in many years. In 1997, he founded Tuffy’s Promotions and brought professional boxing back to town, hosting the first pro card in two decades at Graham Arena. Tuffy’s Promotions went on to host five professional cards locally—milestones that remain part of Rochester’s sporting history.
Rocky’s passion for sports extended beyond the ring. He coached many young athletes—including his own sons, with the Rochester Youth Baseball Association and the Rochester Youth Football Association from 1990 to 1998 and served on the RYFA Board of Directors from 1994 to 1998.
Rocky married his high school sweetheart, Jane Bruning, on June 26, 1981. He and Jane were blessed with two sons, Bryan and Kevin, whom Rocky cherished coaching in youth football and baseball.
Over the years, Rocky worked for Frazer Construction driving semi-truck and operating McCaleb Construction, Inc. He later worked for IBC and Wonder Bread Hostess for many years before finishing his career as a limousine driver—a job he truly enjoyed, as it gave him the chance to share stories and connect with people from all walks of life.
Rocky is survived by his wife of 44 years, Jane; son Bryan (Alissa) and their children Alexandra, Jaxson, Brayden, and Issac; son Kevin (Jenny) and their children Colin, Harrison, and Oliver; and his sisters Nancy and Krisie.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Larry and Elaine (Ranfranz) McCaleb, and his sisters, Ruth Ann and Toni, and his Brother-in-law, Bill.
Rocky will be remembered for his strength in the ring, his gift for storytelling and a life well fought, well lived, and deeply loved.
A visitation will be held Thursday evening, February 26, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home, along with one hour prior to his 2:00PM Memorial Service on Friday, February 27, in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home. A Reception/Celebration of Rocky’s life will follow in the River Park Reception Hall (connected to the chapel).
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Camp Companion, where Rocky found his beloved dog, Carley—a companion who brought him great comfort and joy.
Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com