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Bob Hirsch Obituary

Bob Hirsch, an iconic figure whose love for the Arizona outdoors helped bring it into the living room through various media outlets, died Friday. He was 79.
Published by The Arizona Republic on Oct. 5, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Bob Hirsch

Not sure what to say?





94 Entries

Phil Mckeever

June 1, 2025

Just reminiscing today old school Phoenix - About Bob and his fishing report - Yellow Front Stores - he did the fishing report there also. I love fishing - still do. Thx Bob - just a very nice man.

Kevin Mahoney

December 17, 2019

Too many years later. Condolences from the Mahoney family. I still tell my kids about stories your dad and trips up in the mountains with y'all, Christmas tree killing etc. Hope everyone is doing well

Larry Canida

December 21, 2009

To the entire Hirsch family, I express my deepest sympathies. I just now read about Bob's passing today. I was researching outdoor articles and found the guest book. I used to dance and bike with daughter Amy in the mid 1980's. I had the pleasure to meet Bob and Mary in their Cave Creek home over dinner and remember Mary's smile when I brought out a bottle of dinner wine. I also met Amy's siblings at different times and felt welcome with all. Bob raised some great kids. Amy touched my life and left a mark for the good. Thanks Bob

Tim Wilson

January 12, 2009

Ann, I just read your story in the AZGFD magazine. Great memories for you. We all remember your influence on our kids. The oldest is married and has an RN from UA. Next is @ BYU studying Speech Path and Audiology, third is a senior tearing up the basketball court. God bless you always.
Tim and Jill

Julie Feldhake

November 30, 2008

To Mary, Ann and the entire Hirsch family my deepest sympathies. I just read of Bob's passing today. Arizona hasn't been my home for almost 13 years, however, anytime there's game to be cooked, Bob's cookbook is the one I turn to. I taught with Ann in the 1990's and remember Bob as a gentleman who made you feel warm and welcome no matter that he'd just met you. I know he'll always be missed by all of you. May Peace be in your hearts this holiday season.

Mark Jecker

November 24, 2008

An old friend told me of Bob's passing only last week, and I was greatly saddened by the news (don't read the Republic much anymore). I was a great fan of Bob's writing long before I worked with him professionally. His greatest appeal came from writing for the average sportsman/woman. He always taught us something and never talked down to the newcomer. Bob never forgot that a lot of people fished from shore, owned only one or two rods, reels or guns and shopped at stores like Yellow Front and (the original) Smitty's. He communicated a genuine love and appreciation of Arizona's outdoors to us all and will be greatly missed. Now, I'm sure, he's talking fishing with Saint Peter and those other heavenly fishermen. God rest his soul. My prayers and love are with Mary and the rest of Bob's family.

Jim Goldsmith

November 13, 2008

To the entire Hirsch family: I extend my deepest sympathy to you. I just learned of Bob's passing today.

I attended grade school with Bob's son, Bill, many years ago. Bob's presentation of the Arizona outdoors to every Arizonan was always inspiring. I still have "Yellow Front's Guide to Field Dressing Big Game" written by Bob in the early 70's; I still carry it on all of my big game hunts.

Bob was always an inspirational champion for the Arizona outdoors; he will be truly missed.

Fred & Lana Ward

October 22, 2007

Lana and I had not heard of Bob's passing until today. Our condolences to Mary and the Hirsch family. We have a lot of really great memories of Bob over the years. We wish we had been able to attend the funeral to say goodbye to our very good friend. The fishing world will miss a very good friend. His seminars are among the best. His radio program is great and we wish his daughter the very best as she continues the show.

Kevin Finn

October 19, 2007

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Harold Roberts

October 16, 2007

My sincerest sympathies to the Hirsch family. I was told by Jim Heffelfinger just last night and I was floored - I had just read his & DeWayne's article in the latest Arizona Wildlife Views. His articles were the first thing I read in that magazine - I love his humor.
I remember as a kid growing up in Chandler, he would be on TV a lot and he was great to watch. Truly a great person who will leave a huge void in Arizona and the outdoor world as a whole. I sure will miss you Bob!

LeRoy Price

October 14, 2007

Please accept our sincere condolences. I first met Bob in the 1980's. He wrote an article on me that was published in the Aug. 18, 1987 issue of the Outdoor Almanac. I had the great pleasure of visiting with him many times over the years since then, and loved talking to him about fishing, hunting, and camping. He truly loved the outdoors and it showed through his writing and his seminars. His legacy as a writer will live on, as he inspired so many other outdoor writers. I truly appreciate the interest and support he gave me over the years.

God Bless all of you,
LeRoy Price and family

William Cochran

October 14, 2007

Dear Hirsch family, While I never met Bob in person, I felt that I knew him well. My father was not an outdoorsman but I always had a passion for the outdoors, Bob's Yellow Front Newsletter answered many of the questions that always stumped me. Bob was a good friend and will be greatly missed...... Bill Cochran

Toni (Gilardi) Boragina

October 13, 2007

Dear Hirsch family, and my friend Steve -

I am so sorry for your loss, but I do know that you will Smile each and everyday with your individual memories of Bob and the stories that you hold in your hearts.
I never had the honor of meeting Bob, but I do have to say if he was anything like his Son Steve, with that Wonderful sense of humor and Deep Kindness toward his friends..... I sure missed out on meeting one "Special Man".

Ted Ketterer

October 13, 2007

I have very distinct, treasured memories of Bob and the Hirsch family. It has always been a proud moment when I could state that, "I know him." Thank you to all the Hirsch's for sharing this man with us.

Bob Butzen

October 13, 2007

Bob taught me a lot about outdoor Arizona. I enjoyed him for the 29 years I have lived here. My children and grandchildren are now enjoying the things I learned from Bob.

Glenn Roscher

October 13, 2007

I only met Bob a few times, but ive known his son Eric for many years. Because of this friendship I have seen first hand what Bob has past down to his children. It is thru his children that his legacy will continue. God bless and may he rest in peace.

Dennis Bishop

October 13, 2007

When my daughter was 10, I introduced her to Bob at one of the Arizona boat shows. He was so kind to her and seemed to have a very tender heart with children. That was a side of his great character that jumped out at me. She is now a professor of law at San diego State University but still remembers to this day the kindness he showed her. Along with me, she asked to send her condolences and love to Bob's family. He was and still is an influence to us all. God Bless.

Dave & Pat Daughtry

October 12, 2007

Dear Mary and Family:
Words cannot express our sadness. Bob shared his love with his family, friends and the outdoors. He shared with so many; we all are better for his presence. The world is a better place because of him. Our hearts go out to you. We will miss him deeply.

Sam & Mary Cissel

October 12, 2007

Dear Mary and the Hirsch family,
We are so sad to hear about Bob. Our houseboat trips with the two of you on Lake Powell are some of our most fun memories. When we think of the Hirsch's we think of a loving wonderful family. Your son, Bill said it all when he told us, "I had a wonderful childhood." What a great tribute for a son to give his parents! Bob will be truly missed by all. His generosity touched so many lives. You are in our hearts and prayers.
With love,
Sam & Mary Cissel

Dale Hajek

October 12, 2007

When I heard the sad news about Bob, I began thinking back to 2000. At the time, I was outdoors editor at The Arizona Republic, and Bob was friend, correspondent, and mentor. Bob always liked to say how lucky he was not to have to spend his days in an office or wear a tie, and he was right. His "office" was always one of his favorite lakes or secret hunting/camping spots, and the "dress code" was strictly blue jeans. Well, Bob invited me on a couple of outings that year that I'll never forget -- ice fishing for trout at River and Tunnel lakes near Greer, and then fishing for bass later that summer at Lake Pleasant in a sort of "mini" tournament with a couple of real Arizona bass pros in Mark Kile and Rob Vander Kooi. I'm not sure which two-man team won that hot June day, but it didn't matter. The fish, the laughs and the memories made were plentiful. To the entire Hirsch family, and to anybody who ever had the privilege of knowing or spending time in the outdoors with Bob, please accept my condolences. He will be missed.

Vicki Tallon

October 12, 2007

Dear Mary, and family: My earliest memories of Bob go back 43 years to a coffee shop across the street from the Game & Fish offices. He would come to have coffee with Jim and others from the G & F while he was in the neighborhood on his sales calls. At that time he was a self-described "pencil pusher" (office supply sales) but was about to make his change of careers. Only a few turns of the pages later, and he was with the G & F and we were meeting you and the kids at Mormon Lake for a camping picture shoot. Bob and I were the models, and I think Jim even borrowed your kids for some of the shots. What a beautiful day that was, and what a great family.

Years pass too quickly and all those family dinners of exotic game, the houseboat trips (don't forget the fried spaghetti), the "shop talk" between Bob and Jim while you and I talked about child raising, are fond memories. Oh, let's not forget the emergency trip Bob made to the hospital with Jim -- when Jim developed a kidney stone on one of their varmit calling trips. It was Bob's voice on the phone to tell me Jim was in the hospital, and he didn't know a person's face could really turn green.

Whew, what a lot of trade shows, Outdoor Writer's conferences, and other professional, and personal, events we have seen.

Jim and I will miss Bob's quick wit, leg-pulling stories, and pithy comebacks. In memorium, Jim has posted a photo of Bob with a curious squirrel on his sholder on your photo album.

Our heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.

Vicki and Jim Tallon

Jim Solomon

October 12, 2007

What can you say about the outdoor legend of Arizona? Bob has done so much good in getting the families in Arizona involved in the outdoors. Thank you Bob. You will be missed.

Bob Downing

October 12, 2007

What an Arizona Icon! I was truly saddened to hear of his passing. I still use some of the jokes he told at a wildlife banquet where he was the emcee. I miss him already.

Jennifer Mattingly

October 11, 2007

My thoughts are with the entire Hirsch family at this time. As a friend of Bob's son Billy and his wife Diane, I have only had the pleasure to meet his acquaintance once or twice. However, I have come to find out from my own father that Bob was involved in my life years before I met my friends. Bob is one of the reasons that my own family traveled so often when I was a kid. Because of Bob’s love of Arizona and wildlife, my family was able to experience so much more with the outdoors than I think would have been possible on our own!

Lynn Babcock

October 11, 2007

When I moved to Arizona, 37 years ago, Bob was my guide to many outdoor adventures. I read his articles and listened to his radio shows. From those I gathered information and insight that directed me to some great hunts and fishing trips. I will miss Bob. His great radio voice and wonderful articles.

Pete & Cathy Cimellaro

October 11, 2007

It is hard to imagine the Arizona outdoor scene without Bob Hirsch. Fortunately, for those of us who knew him, he has left us a lifetime of memories to kindle our thoughts and fuel our spirit. Thanks to Mary, the kids and grandkids for sharing him with us for all these years.

David Brown

October 10, 2007

Thanks Bob! It was a great and long ride and I enjoyed your company always. Whenever the term "sportsman" was mentioned I always saw your face and heard your voice. You were Arizona's hunting and fishing public personified.

Via con Dios, David

Zack Norzagaray

October 10, 2007

Bob no words can express how much you will be missed in my heart. You were the father I never had and always treated me like a son.I can never thank you enough for sharing your stories and taking me on so many different hunting and fishing trips thoughtout the southwest.I will never forget the first time you took me bass fishing at Lake Powell and I caught a 6 1/2 pound bass. My memories of you, Mary and the family will always be a part of me to share with your granddaughters Emilie,Addie and Arica.Your son-in-law.

Robert Homco

October 10, 2007

My deepest sympathy to the Hirsch Family. I enjoyed Bob's stories over the years. Especially the one he wrote about my big catch at Apache Lake a few years ago. He is a one of a kind and will be missed by many

Esteban Romero

October 10, 2007

Our condolences to the Hirsch family. We are friends of Billy and Diane. Bob was and always will be an Outdoor Legend that will never be forgoton. Bob, we will all miss you.

The Romero Family

Bob's youngest son Eric w/wife MaryJo and grangdaughter Sarah

Tim Courrier

October 9, 2007

Our condolences go out to the Hirsch family for the loss of Bob. Living on E. Hazelwood and having the pleasure of growing up with the Hirshs (espically Eric) a few doors down will always be one of my most treasured memories. Having their father on the corner was like having an outdoor legend on the block. He was a man who seemed larger than life and always had time for the kids. He will be missed by many. The Courrier Family

Ryna Rock, President, AWF

October 9, 2007

The Board and membership of the Arizona Wildlife Federation would like to express our condolences to the Hirsch family in this difficult time of transition. Bob was always faithful to the conservation ethic and taught it not just by word but by "walking the walk". His love of Arizona and its natural beauties was evident in all he did and wrote about. He was an ardent supporter of the Arizona Wildlife Federation over these many years and we were blessed by that. In our eyes, Bob was a true Arizona Hero!

October 9, 2007

Lorrie Lincoln-Babb

October 9, 2007

To Mary, the kids and entire Hirsch family,
We are so sorry for your loss.
Bob truly was a wonderful man with a great sense of humor and an endless knowledge of the outdoors. He was so respected and liked by our father and all of us in the family. We were lucky to have known him.
Our prayers are with you.

The Dalton C. Babb Family
Millie, Lorrie, Randy and Jeff

john koleszar

October 9, 2007

My condolences to the family of Bob and to the State of Arizona. We have lost a true treasure and someone whose shoes will never be filled. Of all the writers and speakers that I have heard in the outdoor arena, Bob was truly unique. So many lives were touched by his gift of humor, language and love of wildlife and Arizona. He will be missed.

Emilie Norzagaray (Hirsch)

October 8, 2007

Grandpa Bobby,

You were my hunting buddy. If you weren't with me on a hunt you were the first one I called to fill you in on the hunt. Even though your legs hurt so bad you went on my first squirrel hunt. You were waiting back at camp for me with a big smile and hug for me when I showed you my squirrel hidden behind my back. You inspired me to be the ethical hunter and fisherwoman that I am today. As I promised you the night before you died I will get you an elk in a few weeks. I will wear your old camo shirt with buttons missing and pockets ripped. It is a piece of you I will carry into the field. I'll miss all of your stories, but will pass them on. I love you very much Grandpa Bobby- Your Granddaughter and hunting buddy -Emilie

Mike Rainbolt

October 8, 2007

To Mary and the rest of the Hirsch Family; I offer my heartfelt condolences on hearing the news of the passing of your beloved Bob. In reading the Guest Book, it's clear that Bob had a huge impact on the residents of AZ. My fond memories are from my childhoon as my late parents, Jack (of KTVK in the day) & Betty, my sister Michelle and I would join up with Bob, Mary and the Kids for a few days of camping, fishing and fun in various parts of the AZ North country. (I still remember the hill full of tree forts!) Bob and Dad, along with folks from the AZ Fish & Game Dept collaborated on a couple of ventures in the 60's which cemented a relationship between these two avid outdoorsman. I remember some of the video hi-jinks that these two perpetrated; two families seemingly disappearing into a Coleman Tent trailer on loan from Yates Sporting Goods; a few tv commercials - one which simply had a close-up of Bob mouthing nothing other than the word 'FISH'.

I would echo Steve Hirsch's thoughts on his Dad being a kind man. In later years Bob was very gracious when approached at the various shows and conventions. He took the time to ask about family or later just to ask "how are you doing" despite all the commotion and activities going on around him. I am sad for the entire Hirsch Family due to Bob's passing, though heartened in the thought that many old friends and part of my family are reunited in love, friendship and bountiful fishfries! May God bless all of the Hirsch Family in love, health and fellowship in these difficult days and the days ahead,
With Love and Admiration,
On behalf of the Rainbolt Family,

Michael Rubin

October 8, 2007

Bob leaves a great legacy, both in family and a love and appreciation for the outdoors. Those of us who had a chance to share even the smallest amount of time with him learned so much and were enriched by the experience. Condolences to the Hirsch family.

Bob Hirsch with Art Pearce & Carole Bartholomeaux

Carole Bartholomeaux

October 8, 2007

My sincere condolences to the extended Hirsch family on your loss. I had the privilege and pleasure of knowing Bob for 30 years. He was a gentle man with a wonderful sense of humor, a friend and a mentor. He was a blessing. Please know that I will keep all of you in my prayers and offer Mass this week.

Jackie and Dale Craig

October 8, 2007

Our deepest sympathy to the Hirsch family for your loss. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Russ Brown

October 8, 2007

TELL ME AGAIN BOB, WAS IT A GUY FROM THATCHER......I WILL MISS YOU BOB AND KNOW THAT YOUR GREAT LOVE OF FAMILY AND THE OUTDOORS COMBINED GUIDED ME AS I RAISED MY FAMILY.
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU MARY, AS WELL AS TO ALL OF THE HIRSCH CLAN.....

The Zeebs

October 8, 2007

Our thoughts are with all of you. Bob was a wonderful person, and the greatest testament to him is the wonderful family he and Mary raised. Love to you all.

Erin Hepburn

October 8, 2007

Grandpa Bob will be missed by all. He may not have been my grandpa by blood but the Hirsch family is one I wish I was. I've had the pleasure of him being my Grandpa and being "Santa" since before I could remember. He never reffered to me as a "step grand-daughter" but always as part of the family. I never hunted, but he did teach me how to gut/clean my first fish!! Also being on tv with my cousin Lou "catching" catfish!! I appreciate all the kind words that have been written to him and our family and I know he will be thought about for a very long time. I will miss you Grandpa Bob.

Laura Mason

October 8, 2007

The AZ community is suffering a great loss and we know you are too. We are keeping your family in our thoughts.

Neal Cissel

October 8, 2007

To Mary and all the kids and grandkids. Your husband and dad and granddad, was a special person to us all. My fond memories where when I would call Bob up and say I have been catching fish and would love to take you out and show you how I am doing it. There where many days spent on Canyon Lake or Saguaro Lake spooning for bass. Or the time I was on Bartlett catching fish on spinnerbaits or rubber worms. Bob and I always had some great times on the water sharing fish stories and teaching each other fishing. I remember one time on Saguaro Lake I had a fishing guide trip and I ask if he would like to go out with my customers and he jumped at the idea. We had a successful trip that day and Bob got pictures and a story out of that day. Mary my thoughts and prayers go out to you and I am sorry I wasn't able to see Bob before his passing To the kids, my heart goes out to you as I know how it is to loose a parent and the loss feelings you have to deal with, my prayers go out to you all. If you ever want someone to talk to my heart is open. May God touch each and everyone of you today and everyday as you mourn your loss.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Heavenly Father I lift the Hirsch family to you as they deal with the sadness, loneliness, the tears of joy and sadness. Father comfort them in their time of sorrow, take your hand Father and just put it on their hearts and give them peace and take your arms and hold them as they grieve in the passing of Bob Hirsch. You are the one that will help us all through this difficult time Father, But for me Father I want you to lift the Hirsch family up first and console all of their needs through this very difficult time. Father we thank you for bringing to us Bob Hirsch into our lives to teach us about the outdoors, to share with us his knack for writing and making us feel like we where there with him on the outing he was writing about. In Your Heavenly Name we Praise you Lord. Amen

Mike,Kathy,Christin,Zach and Nathan Francis

October 8, 2007

We are going to greatly miss the stories and tips so warmly given by Bob over the years. They were a gift we will never forget.
He had a love for his family and the outdoors that few will ever experience.
Our lives have been truly blessed by knowing Bob.
Our condolences go to Mary and all of his family.
Thank you so much for sharing him with us over the years.

Lou Hirsch

October 7, 2007

Reading all these postings from old friends, familiar names and new well-wishers has brought a smile to my face and has supported the rest of my family through this difficult week. My most favorite recent memory of Grandpa Bob was my last trip to Christmas Tree Lake with him two years ago. I enjoyed the camaraderie that he fostered around the dinner table, and I was lucky enough to fish with him in one of the small two person motorboats on the lake for the afternoon. Sure, the stories were the same as the previous times I heard them, but I knew that our trips together were dwindling with the passage of time and I enjoyed them as much as I did during my first audience. Whether my memories take me through the desert on my first javelina hunt, over the earthen levees of cattle tanks for those elusive ring-necks, or on the glassy surface of a frigid reservation lake trolling for trout, Grandpa is there. He was always smiling, always cracking jokes, and always gave me that type of advice that was almost casual with experience and deep appreciation of the great outdoors. Arizona has lost a great man through death, but every one of us has learned to love the outdoors a little bit more through the lessons of his life.

Jay Zweig

October 7, 2007

Bob had a knack for making everyone feel comfortable and important. He also instilled a love and respect for the outdoors and the State of Arizona in everyone who met him, heard him or read his work. His influence will continue to be felt for generations to come through his family carrying on his good works, and through those of us who were lucky enough to have met him. My sincere condolences to the Hirsch family. I know that memories of the good times with Bob will be of comfort as you mourn and as you celebrate his life.

Duane Wellnitz

October 7, 2007

“Kill it, Grill it”
“Catch it, Cook it”
“Go wild in the kitchen”
-so says Bob Hirsch.........

Diane Kalas

October 7, 2007

Bob was a weekly guest on a daily program I produced on channel 12 in Phoenix, back in the 70's when it was still KTAR-TV. His segment, every week, was always a highlight of the show. He kept us informed, entertained and laughing about all his outdoor escapades. He taught us how to cook over a campfire and not only survive, but to thrive in the wilds of Arizona. I was fortunate to be a tag-along on several of his houseboat trips on Lake Powell as well as other fishing adventures, along the way -- what fun we had! I was proud to call him colleague and pleased to call him friend. He will be sorely missed.

Duane Wellnitz

October 7, 2007

"Kill it and Grill it!"
"Catch it and Cook it!"
"Go Wild in the Kitchen!"
-so says Bob Hirsch

Chuck Booker-Hirsch

October 7, 2007

As one who enjoys the art of good writing, I always valued my father-in-law's appreciation for the same. As an inveterate city boy who never hunted or fished a day in his life, I never developed a keen desire for reading about fish or fowl. And yet, I found common ground with Bob in our enjoyment of articulate essays far afield from Field & Stream. For the past decade, I have eagerly anticipated each edition of one of his favorite periodicals -- The New Yorker -- that I have received in the mail courtesy of annual Christmas gifts from him.

Now, I won't have anyone in Arizona to argue politics with anymore (except Steve, perhaps). I miss Bob already.

Kathy Noltze

October 7, 2007

Bob's book "Cookin' Wild" is our kitchen favorite. Our thoughts are with you, Mary. The world is a better place for Bob having been here.

Robert Hirschboeck & Kathy Noltze

*Theresa Curran Valero

October 7, 2007

To the entire Hirsch Family,
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Bob. Your family gave me my first true lessons in the Arizona outdoors and hunting. Learning to hunt quail, cleaning a dove, and all the great wild game recipes are just a few of the great memories I have. I know he loved his family so much. Grandpa Bob leaves a great legecy behind in all his children and grandchildren. My condolences to Mary and the rest of the family as well.

Marc Orlowski

October 7, 2007

I learned to fish and enjoy the outdoors because of Bob Hirsch.
There is not a lake or stream that I am enjoying that I don't think of Bob Hirsch. He will be sorely missed.

Robert Cosper

October 7, 2007

My eldest brother Phil Cosper worked with Mr. Hirsch at the Game and Fish and I had the pleasure of meeting him during a visit to Phoenix in my youth. He is an Arizona icon of the outdoor life we all love so. God has a new fishin buddy!

Barbara Bishop-Sandeen

October 7, 2007

My brothers and I grew up living next door to Bob and Mary Louise. We have a lot of fond memories--ate lots of fish, frog legs and venison--thanks to Bob. Our sincere condolences to the family. Your loss is great as is ours.

Big Lake Beauties

October 6, 2007

May 2007 High Country Trout

October 6, 2007

Three Generations

October 6, 2007

Sandhills near Willcox

October 6, 2007

Dad and Mom

Steve Hirsch

October 6, 2007

The family now has information concerning Dad's funeral services. They will be held at Church of the Beatitudes, southeast corner of Seventh Avenue and Glendale Avenue in Phoenix (extra parking available next to the fire station on the
NW corner) at 10 a.m. this coming Saturday, October 13. A reception
will follow at Nelson Hall on the Church campus. Everyone is welcome
to attend and celebrate his great life. These postings and photos have
been wonderful. Watch for an obituary in the Republic, likely on
Tuesday and Wednesday. Our love to all.
The Hirsch family

Bill Sweet

October 6, 2007

My condolences to the Hirsch family. Bob will be missed by so many of us who were educated and amused by him thru the years. My roots are also in Minnesota, where my Dad started my love for camping for me and my four siblings. I'll always hear Bob's unique voice guiding me out in the wilderness.

Cindy Ruich

October 6, 2007

I am soo sorry for your loss! I love to hear the stories Ann shares about her brothers and Dad on hunting and fishing trips. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Brad Mercer

October 6, 2007

Bob,
As I sit here and think of what to say, I think of all the days, from catching crawdads on bacon and a string out of the canal in the old neighborhood at 12 years old to our time in what was to be your final Elk camp in the high country last fall, so many adventures all over Arizona, so many stories. My long friendship with your family has always been and will continue to be one of the brightest parts of my life. I don't have the words to express the true gratitude in my heart for that cherished friendship. I hope you can in some way see that you are always with us, in the field, in the boat, in the camps to come and hear us tell, with love and happiness in our hearts, tales of Bob, one of the best story tellers of all.
With Love.

Steven Hirsch Jr.

October 6, 2007

I'd like to thank all of you who have posted your thoughts and prayers for my grandfather. What I will remember most about grandpa bob is how he spread love for the outdoors with everyone he met. Thank you all once again.

DeWayne Smith

October 6, 2007

For nearly 40 years Bob and I worked, played and just plain had fun together in Arizona and other outdoor locales. But our best outings came last year when the two of us made a White Mountains run selling his maps. We also hunted sandhill cranes in the fall. These trips gave us a chance to reminisce and swap stories. Goodbye Old Friend...

Ted

October 6, 2007

Bob, we are going to miss you. I still remember the fish line 955-FISH to find the hot spots.

Charlie Schindler

October 6, 2007

If you never had the chance to go hunting with Bob you missed out. It was always an adventure. Too many stories to tell and if I could do it again I would. Love and best wishes to all the family. Hope to see you soon.

Jim Houser

October 6, 2007

I grew up in Arizona reading about the outdoors from Bob. I always looked forward to his articles. I am 40 now and love the outdoors thanks to him. We shall all pass it on to the next generation. God bless him and his family.

Bruce and Anne Taubert

October 6, 2007

To the Hirsch Family; Thank you for sharing Bob with Anne and me for the past 26 years. Bob's influence on Arizona and its wildlife will last forever.

Marc Townsend

October 6, 2007

I cannot begin to express my condolences to the Hirsch Family. I am a native arizonan and can remember all the way back to the arizona boat show when I was 10 years old listening to Bob Hirsch talk about anything and everything that is outdoors in this great state. I fast forward to a dreary, rainy day in January 1995 when, as a wet behind the ears pro angler, I met Bob Hirsh to do a story on Jerkbaits at Lake Pleasant. He actually remembered me and boy did I get quite a laugh at hearing how many damn questions I asked Mr. Hirsch when I was a kid. I am going to miss this man on a personal level. More importantly, He was the face of the outdoors in arizona, and boy howdy is this state going to miss him.

Joy Bequette-Penman

October 6, 2007

What a wonderful friend for those of us who knew Bob! I was privileged to work with Bob for many years typing his articles for "Outdoor Arizona" and the "Yellow Front Report". He always realized how blessed he was to be able to get paid for doing something he would have done for free. My heart is heavy for his wonderful wife Mary and the family they created together! God bless all of you!

Pete Fairbanks

October 6, 2007

Very sorry to the Hirsch family for
their loss. Always loved to read
Bobs articles about fishing in the
White Mountains. He will be missed.

Oscar Johnson

October 6, 2007

What a great guy! Many times he took time to chat with me at outdoors events. Several times I wrote letters asking for fishing/hunting advice-He ALWAYS answered. I can't name one other person (in any field) that has done that. It was like he was a neighbor from down the street. I'll never forget Bob.

Tom

October 6, 2007

I started fishing at Big Lake after reading one of Bob's articles. My son and I have fished there now for 16 years and have a lot of great memories thanks to Bob. Always enjoyed his articles (still have some), radio shows and public appearances. Thanks Bob for introducing me to the great outdoors of Arizona and teaching me how to fish.

"The Last Cast"

October 6, 2007

Bob Hirsch -- Christmas Tree Lake Trip

October 6, 2007

Ron Cadaret

October 5, 2007

Many people will miss Mr.Hirsch. I was in Scouting with his son and grandson's and Bob came to help us educate the boys on the outdoors on many occasions and made it possible through his influence for our scout troop to have access to the Outdoor show to promote scouting through our work at the show as we aided other people in catching fish in the tank which for most may have been their first and only time in such a enviroment. This also provided the scouts with many qualities of what we lived by and know as the "scout oath" . Bob, you and your family were so lucky to have such love and support! You will truly be missed!

Robert Miller

October 5, 2007

I will always remember fishing with Bob as a child at Lake Powell. The state's wildlife and outdoors will always have your signature on it. Thank you for the memories and all of your hard work!

Ann Hirsch

October 5, 2007

The Hirsch family appreciates all your thoughts and prayers. Dad is in a great place with a rifle in one hand and a fishing rod in the other. The outdoors will be a better place because of all that Dad shared- The Hirsch Family

Dennis Holland

October 5, 2007

Thank You Mr. Hirsch for championing for outdoor concervancy and the fun of learning. Hook up with Noah where you are going to complete your education. A good teacher never stops learning.

Daryl and Pete

October 5, 2007

Oh my gosh! We just heard about Bob. Our thoughts and prayers go to you, Mary, and the entire family!

Over the years Bob became much more than just a friend. We shared so many good times working and traveling together to outdoor shows and conferences all over the country. And we will always remember our numerous hunting and fishing trips. Who could forget Bob's campfire stories, fishing tips and incredible knowledge of Arizona and the outdoors.

Bob, you will be truly missed but will always live on in our hearts.

DANA YEAGER

October 5, 2007

Its a sad day for sure. I learned so much about hunting and the care of game meat from Bobs articles. He is the last of the great Arizona Outdoor Writers. I will never go hunting without thinking of Bob and my Father. I followed Bobs advise and always took my kids to the outdoors. What great times we had. Thanks Bob. We'll miss you.

Sandy and Jerry Mautz

October 5, 2007

We spent many happy fun filled hours fishing and visiting with this wonderful man who will remain in our hearts and thoughts forever. He will be greatly missed by many.
Our Love and Prayers to Mary and all the Family.
Sandy and Jerry Mautz
Formerly of Greer, Az.

Scott Fisher

October 5, 2007

To all the Hirsch family:
I am so sorry for your loss. I loved Bob as much as I loved my own father.
All my love and support always.
Scott

KEN DEMSKI

October 5, 2007

THE ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT SHOULD HAVE A LIFESIZE BRONZE STATUE OF BOB HIRSCH ON DISPLAY AT THEIR NEW FACILITY ON CAREFREE HIGHWAY. MY GUESS IS BOB'S EFFORTS TO PROMOTE ARIZONA'S OUTDOORS GENERATED MORE THAN ENOUGH REVENUE TO BUILD THAT FACILITY AND THEN SOME!!!! I WOULD THINK IT IS THE VERY LEAST THAT WE CAN ALL DO TO SHOW OUR APPRECIATION FOR "MR. ARIZONA OUTDOORS"!!!

Randy

October 5, 2007

I grew up in Arizona and always loved hearing Bob talk about the outdoors. One of his fishing tips for catching trout I still use to this day and have passed down to my kids. My thoughts and Prayers go out to you and your family. We will miss you Bob!

Rita Sanders

October 5, 2007

Bob was one of the first persons I met when I moved to AZ in 1974. He was always so helpful to me in the promotion of the Arizona National Boat Shows and Sportsmen's Shows. I will always remember the wild game dinner he cooked for the media. He will be missed and was an AZ institution.

Douglas Burt

October 5, 2007

Bob - thank you for everthing you have done in the promotion of the Arizona outdoors. You got me hooked! You'll always be my mentor and hero!

jak jak

October 5, 2007

Sad day but I think he had a great life. I am envious.

Journey's end on the highest of peaks......

lee elbert

October 5, 2007

So very sorry to hear of the loss of one of Arizonas' crown jewel writers. I have cherished Bob's words for as long as this arizona boy could read-and will go on cherishing his memory and words.
Bluegill anyone?
biglakejake

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