Robert Boesch

January 22, 1933 - January 4, 2024

Robert Boesch passed away at home on January 4, 2024 following complications from lung disease. Bob was born January 22, 1933 in Hartford, Conn., the second of seven children to George E. and Cecelia Reynolds Boesch. He attended local public schools and graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1955 with a ROTC commission in the US Air Force. Subsequently earning his wings as a navigator, Bob served in the Far East, which included flying support for the 1958 atomic test on Eniwetok.

After his tour of duty in 1959, Bob moved to San Francisco and began a successful career as a manufacturing executive and Professional Engineer at the Schlage Lock Company, and subsequently at Cornnuts, Inc. (In his own inimitable way, he referred to this transition as “from bolts to nuts!”). Dedicated to his family friends, career and community, he had many interests. While living in San Francisco, he joined the Guardsman, and after moving to the Peninsula in 1965, Bob was an active volunteer in the Children’s Health Home and served as president of the then San Mateo Park Improvement Association. In retirement, he spent 25 years as a pro bono business counselor for SCORE.

In what was to become one of the most enjoyable and meaningful activities in his life, Bob joined the Bohemian Club in 1973 as Librarian for the Concert Band. Active in Club leadership, he was a member of the Old Guard, List of Fifty, and served as its president from 2011 to 2013. Bob also deeply appreciated the friendships and camaraderie at the Burlingame Country Club, where he enjoyed tennis, played golf well into his 80’s, and could always be counted on for a serious domino game.

Bob was an ardent Niners and Huskies fan. Wood working was his special skill, and after moving to San Francisco, his first effort was to build a sailboat which he raced on the Bay. That hobby led him to build many beautiful pieces of furniture for members of his grateful family.

Above all else, Bob was deeply passionate about his family. He delighted at being a devoted and loving husband to his wife of 62 years, Patricia Ashby Boesch; father to son, Tom and daughter, Katy; father-in-law to Terri; and a very special PopPop to his grandchildren, Michael Boesch and Kendall Boesch. He remained a loving brother to his siblings, Mary Ann Ahearn, James Boesch (Diane), Paula Cohen and Joseph Boesch (Denise). He was preceded in death by his brother, George Boesch; and sister, Edwina Bender. Ever the New Englander, but seasoned by California, with a well-honed sense of humor, Bob was a man of principle and a gentleman who exhibited kindness, wisdom and humanity to all who knew him. Working behind the scenes, he was often sought out for his practical and insightful advice, which he offered in a low key and thoughtful way. With his generous soul, he had the ability to make everyone feel welcome, and he was a mentor to many. He will be sorely missed by his family and good friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Episcopal Church of St. Matthew, 1 S. El Camino Real, San Mateo, on Saturday, March 2, at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bob’s memory may be made to the Dawn Redwood Trust, 1 Blackfield Drive, Suite 331, Tiburon, Calif. 94920 or to the Guardsmen, 1016 Lincoln Boulevard, No. 205, San Francisco, Calif. 94129.