Robert “Bob” Gerard Roche of Lynn and Peabody passed away on June 12 at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers. He was 81.
Roche was an avid golfer, had been a PGA pro for more than a decade, and was a valued photographer for North Shore Golf, being an active contributor when Essex Media Group revived this magazine in 2016.
He was a familiar sight on the sidelines of youth and school sporting events, both as a coach and a photographer for several local newspapers including the Daily Item of Lynn.
He retired after 36 years with the USPS, 31 of those at the North Reading Distribution and Processing Plant. Bob spent his retirement traveling, playing golf and gardening.
Roche was a prized friend to many. He made an impact with his golf game, but more of an impact as a person. He treated others with respect and was always there to help those in need. Lynn and the golf community have lost an amazing person.
“I can’t say enough nice things about Mr. Roche,” Gannon Municipal Golf Club PGA professional David Sibley said. “I’ve been here for 11 years and he was a staple here up until the last year or so. He played during the week and during the weekends. He played in the events and he was one of the guys who everyone knew. There aren’t many people nicer than Bob Roche.”
Roche was a PGA pro for 12 years. He spent three of those years as head pro at Wenham Country Club. When he regained amateur status, he joined Gannon, and was always willing to help out whenever there was an event or he was playing with friends.
“I’ve known him the entire time I was here. He was the type of guy who always lent a helping hand,” Sibley said.
Sibley said Roche mainly played with his regular group on Tuesdays. “His loss will be felt here.”
Roche is survived by his wife of 53 years Sharon, daughter Meaghan Martel and her husband Christopher, and son Patrick Roche; in addition to many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He also leaves behind Gus, an Old English Sheepdog that he and his family rescued. Gus was the family’s seventh dog and fifth rescue.
