Robert J. Roach, 85 of Hinsdale, and formerly longtime resident of LaGrange Park, passed away February 2, 2026, surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of Patricia, nee Hayes; his loving wife of 61 years, adored father of Robert (Heather) Roach, Michael Roach and Kathleen (Brian) McLaughlin; proud Bop of Chance Roach and Charles, Edward and William McLaughlin; beloved son of the deceased Robert and Mary (McCormick) Roach; fond brother of the late Kathleen (late George) Hyland; fond brother in law of the late Thomas (late Carole) Hayes; fun-loving uncle of many Huff, Hyland and Hayes nieces and nephews and a dear, longtime friend to countless others, including almost every person he met or encountered in life.
Bob lived life to the fullest. He was born January 4, 1941 at St. Anne hospital weighing 10 pounds! It’s true-we have proof! Bob loved growing up in South Oak Park, IL and had many fine childhood memories and friendships that remained throughout his life.
Bob was a proud graduate of Ascension grade school class of 1954, Fenwick High School, a proud Friar of the class of 1958 and Loyola University class of 1962. For 55 years he was proudly employed in the Chicago Paper Industry. He was Vice President of Sales for 48 years at Bradner Smith and Company and for seven years at Lindenmeyer-Monroe a division of Central National Gottesman Corporation.
Bob served as Governor of the Board of Directors of the Western Golf Association-Chick Evans Scholarship, President and Director of the Board of La Grange Country Club, Life Trustee of the Board of Directors of Fenwick High School, President of the Chicago Graphics Arts Club, Chairman of the La Grange Park Caucus, and numerous boards and clubs over the years.
Bob was a true legend. His larger than life personality, both in stature, humor, and witt were infectious. You would often find Bob holding court on the sideline or bleachers at any youth, high school, college or pro game especially football and basketball. Bob loved watching his grandsons, nieces and nephews play sports. He was a true sports enthusiast and if he was at a game you knew it.
Bob loved to golf and travel, he played golf courses around the world. He was hilarious and fun, loved to talk, always made a connection and found something in common within everyone, very intelligent, loved to read, you would always find him in “his chair” reading and watching sports. Bop’s Type A personality, had his 2026 calendar filled out for the year, of course with a full social calendar, impeccably dressed, unbelievable memory, loved to talk sports or just about anything and greatest storyteller. The stories are endless. He was truly one of a kind. He impacted many peoples lives as uncle, friend, mentor, and as Coach Roach. He was a true gem with a massive presence that we will never forget. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, wife Patricia, his three children and his adored four grandsons. Bob will be greatly missed and forever remembered as the greatest and a true gentleman.
Family and friends will be received at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester on Sunday, February 15, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. All will gather on Monday, February 16, 2026 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, LaGrange, 11:00 a.m. Funeral Mass (Please click here to view livestreamed mass). Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Francis Xavier Parish School, 145 N Waiola Ave, La Grange, IL 60525, or the Western Golf Association, Evans Scholar Foundation, 2501 Patriot Boulevard, Glenview, IL 60026, are deeply appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Peter B. Kennedy & Co. Funeral Directors. Info: 708-562-5900