Walsh Jr., Robert E. "Bob"

The family of Bob Walsh ( Robert E. Walsh, Jr.) is saddened to share the news of his sudden death. Bob was diagnosed with aggressive lung cancer in February and passed away peacefully, April 23, 2018 at age 78.

Bob was born December 20, 1939 and raised in the South Shore neighborhood. He attended St. Philip Neri grammar school and Mt. Carmel High School. Bob then headed West to the University of Colorado where he was a member of Chi Psi fraternity and graduated in 1961. After college, Bob’s first work experience was at the front of the classroom teaching history at Chicago’s Bowen High School. From there he followed a "calling" to the Chicago Police Department, Star # 1171, working in various patrol districts including South Chicago and Near North. Bob was awarded numerous merit citations for bravery and going "above and beyond" the call of duty. At age 50, Sergeant Walsh took early retirement to enjoy all that life had to offer.

Bob was a man with a wide range of interests: railroads, travel, music, and reading. In his youth, Bob’s model train in the Walsh family home on Merrill Avenue was a sight to behold. During his bi- annual trips driving throughout the United States, he caught up with old friends and photographed railroad engineering feats such as the Tehachapi Loop in California. He also found enjoyment being "out and about" on his bicycle, pedaling from South Shore to Hyde Park to downtown. A lover of music, Bob’s tastes ran the gamut from Richard Rogers’ "Victory at Sea" to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, from composers Leroy Anderson to Burt Bacharach. He was an avid reader. Daily PRINT newspapers were a MUST and his bookshelves brimmed with works on military history, foreign policy, current events, railroads, and biographies.

Bob made a point of "keeping in touch" with friends from all aspects of his life. He never missed a Mt. Carmel Annual Alumni banquet, a Green Tree Christmas Ball, a University of Colorado homecoming, or reunions with pals from Bowen High School or the Chicago Police Department. He loved to celebrate birthdays and ALL holidays with his family. He was the first to arrive; Coca- Cola and vanilla ice cream with hot fudge sauce put a smile on his face.

Bob Walsh was a man of his word. He was caring and loyal with a capital "L." His passing has brought deep sorrow to his family and friends. He was devoted to and is survived by: his sisters, Karen Stevens and Kate Leatham ( Jerry) ( Chicago, IL); his brother, Jay ( Susanna) ( Norfolk, VA); and many cousins from the Walsh, Gallagher, Duffy and Graham families. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Robert E. Walsh and Catherine Walsh ( Palandech). Due to his sudden death, a Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Details will be updated on www.donnellanfuneral.com when they are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Carmel High School, 6410 S. Dante Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60637 in memory of Robert E. Walsh, Jr., Class of 1957.

Service Information: Donnellan Family Funeral Services 847 675- 1990.