(October 12, 1951 – March 19, 2021)
Tá mo chroí istigh ionat…my heart is within you
The world is less bright without the gregarious laughter of Robert Keith Roach, affectionately called “Bobby,” by his beloved wife of nearly forty years, Sandra Shiner Roach, (Sandie), and echoed by his friends, who will keep his flame burning, sharing many stories and yarns of deep companionship. Bob’s earthly spirit leaves family and friends to meet his parents, Keith (1971) and Joan (2019), and walk along Heaven’s path, his warm Claddagh embrace holding Sandie, his best friend, safe and close, as she hears his words in the wind, “With my Hands, I give you my Heart, in Love and Friendship, and Crown it with my Loyalty.”
As an alumnus of Austin Prep in Detroit, Bob lived his faith with a kind and giving heart. Carrying the courage of his convictions, Bob entered the military, working with Army Intelligence, before the sudden death of his father, Keith, brought him back home to offer strength to his mother Joan, brother David and two sisters, Marilyn (Richard Cortellini) and Ann (Jeff Bourgeois). Along the way, Uncles, Aunts, Nieces and cherished cousins formed a family circle. Bob was the essence of his family.
A man of letters, Bob attended the University of Detroit (UDMercy), earning his undergraduate and two Master of Arts degrees, specializing in Criminal Law and Justice. This knowledge served him well in his much respected vocation as an officer of the law with the Grosse Pointe Park Police Department, later named Grosse Pointe Park Public Safety. Principled and noble in his beliefs, Bob followed the motto and lived his life as “A man for others.” His humility kept his accomplishments at his alma mater quiet. He extoled the accolades of others and wore his own achievements close to his vest. Bob extended his commitment as a guardian of safety and protection, following his retirement from the police force, when he joined the in-house Security Team of Cottage Hospital - Bon Secours - Beaumont Hospital in Grosse Pointe.
In the midst of being a past Commander of AMVETS Post 121 St. Clair Shores, Michigan, a member of the Gaelic League of Detroit - Irish American Club, Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Knights of Columbus, Bob was an avid golfer, voracious reader, and adventurous traveler. He was the best of neighbors, chatting over the fence, helping with gardens, tree-trimming, shoveling snow and offering dog-care tips. Bob enjoyed surprising his wife, Sandie, with their favorite terriers.
Bob was a trusted confidante to many. He wore a badge of honor, integrity, character; he was a man of substance. Bob never stopped being present for those in need, not even after an accident, seven years ago, that left him physically limited, but never quelled his vivid imagination, his zest for joy, his incredible ability to make everyone around him feel very special and very loved. Bob will be remembered as a tall, strong, caring, personable, community leader, with a great sense of humor. Bob will continue to be in our prayers and in our memories. Always altruistic, Bob’s legacy lives on in the treasure of sight he bestowed upon another with his Irish eyes, still smiling. He remains a Giver of Light; his memory burns brightly, promising Hope.
Due to current Covid restrictions a Service for Bob will be arranged, at a later date, to be held in the Chapel at A. H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236 (313) 884-5500. A Celebration of Life, a Tribute to Bob, with his friends, will be held at a date, not yet determined.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to any of these very worthy causes, in Bob’s name to honor his Memory. Bob carried in his Heart the following:
The mission of the Capuchin Friars and the teachings of Fr. Solanus Casey: Capuchins and/or Solanus Casey Center, 1820 Mt Elliott Street, Detroit, MI 48207
A commitment to the programs of the: Fraternal Order of Police Grosse Pointe Lodge 102, Box 361398, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236.
Support for our homeless Veterans: Michigan Veterans Foundation Homeless Shelter, 4626 Grand River, Detroit, MI 48208.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5