Born December 18th, 1947
Farmington, Mass
Died July 7, 2007
Bob Foley was known to most of us as “Big Bob”. He was a big man in many ways
and without a doubt he loved his food. He lived big, dreamed big and succeeded often. I’m sure that many of us remember the “Happy Buddha”, well, I like to think of Bob
in that way.
Bob was a giving man as many remember from our reunion at FT Eustis, his one and only 458th reunion. I still recall the smiles and jokes he would tell as he sat during a Christmas celebration at my home two years ago. I know he’s better off now. No longer thinking about another trip to the hospital, dealing with his physical / medical circumstances.
Peace be with you Bob….we will see you again and you will not be forgotten
We met at “All Souls” Catholic Church in the small town of Myrtle Creek
East of Coos Bay, Oregon
Ninety five degrees and 100 friends and family attended. Many spoke during the services about the big hearted man we knew as Big Bob !
We got some flowers at the local flower shop and delivered them to the church
for the funeral. The card read: “In memory of Bob Foley
From the Men & Families of the 458th PBR “Sea Tigers”
Many spoke during the funeral, including his brothers John and Ron McGuire. His
ex-wife Lori from Alaska, mother from Vermont. Many friends, veterans
Father Ryan who officiated over the funeral, relayed a funny story about Bob. Seems that every time Bob believed the big one was about to happen to him, he would call the father and say to him, “Father, bring me Jesus”..so time after time Father Ryan would run to the car with his parish aide in tow and away they would go to the Veterans hospital. However, that time never arrived for Big Bob in the hospital but in the arm of his youngest son Shawn. One time after racing to “Bring GOD” to Bob they were unable to find Bob. Then they heard someone yelling BIG BOB….Big Bob…where are you ! Turns out Bob had some indigestion and went in thinking he was about to have a heart attack. The man who was calling his name arrived at the bed the same time the Father did …..with three pizzas.
The following are a few snap shots that were taken during the funeral and burial. I want to thank SFC Richard Starks (ret), for accompanying me to represent the 458th. We had a good trip and enjoyed those we met.
Father Ryan on the Right with Bob Foley’s mother
The cemetery is perched on the top of a hill
Bob’s ex-wife Lisa standing
Ready for the final ceremony, volley and taps
Shawn saying his last Goodbyes to his father
