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Robert L. "Bob" Duffy

Robert Duffy Obituary

Duffy, Robert L. "Bob"
71, of Phoenix, AZ, passed away on January 12, 2014. Born February 3, 1942, Gary, Indiana to Lyle and Lillian (Hurst). Superintendent of Career Success Schools and namesake of Robert L. Duffy High School. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, educator, mentor, and friend. Survived by his wife Jean, son Timothy (Bette Anne), daughter Roberta Jennings (Peter), grandchildren Kevin Robert and Maribelle Jayne Jennings, and sisters Sandra Bennett, Kathleen Schomaker, and Karen Dru Duffy Phelps. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, and a memorial service will be announced at, http://tinyurl.com/nfwvam7.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Jan. 17, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Duffy

Sponsored by Bob's Loving Family.

75 Entries

Daneisha Flannigan DeVorce

January 11, 2025

Continue to rest in heaven! The love and support you gave your students will be remembered forever!!

Ashley Haley

January 15, 2023

Because of you I am planting seeds for the future generations. Because of people like you who gave and provided a safe space I am who I am today. 2nd chances and faith go long ways.

Victoria P

April 19, 2020

I had the pleasure of getting to know Bob over 20 years ago at North American Tech. Such a kind man who saw the best in everyone. My thoughts go out to his wife Jean and family.

Daneisha S

January 11, 2020

Your legacy continues to live on in every Graduate of Career Success and RLD. Continue to rest in heaven Mr. Duffy

Rosemary Boeing

February 3, 2019

Some people make an impression that lasts and lasts. Bob had a vision when he began Career Success Schools and that vision continues on to this day and into the future. So many lives have been touched by Bob and his unselfish work to provide education and family. I am one of the people who have the privilege to belong to this family. You'd be very proud of your Jeannie and all the people who continue to do the work you started. Thanks Bob and Happy Birthday!
Rosemary Boeing

February 3, 2019

Happy birthday Mr. Duffy, because of your vision I was awarded the opportunity to work for Career Success Schools- North Campus. As principal, I hope that I am meeting your expectation. It is truly a pleasure to be a part of your vision.
Ronald L Alexander

February 1, 2019

Bob where to begin.
You would be so happy with the way your legacy has continued to grow with Career Success Schools.
You are remembered and talked about daily.
I miss the fun you brought to the students and staff.
Miss you.
Chris

Judy White

January 28, 2019

I often remember Bob as I drive by one of his schools, attend a conference with one of his staff, or search for a creative way to make a budget meet students' needs. I am so glad I knew him!

November 24, 2018

Bob - Twenty four years ago we vowed to be together "til death do us part". Death has not made my love for you any less. I carry with me so many beautiful memories that I replay in my heart often as I continue with out you.

You will always be my forever. I miss you. Love Jeannie

November 25, 2017

My Dear Bob - 23 years ago I became your wife. I miss you so and think of you everyday.
I hope you are proud of the work I am doing to continue our schools.
As the years fly by I know I get closer to being with you again.
Love you always and forever - Jeannie

Eric (Kim) Hjerpe

November 26, 2016

A great coach. A great teacher. Will always be remembered.

November 26, 2016

Bob - today would have been our 22nd wedding anniversary. The years are going by so quickly. Not a day goes by without me thinking of you and how much I wish you were here!

I have a lot to be grateful for this year though. I know I will be with you again when the time is right.

You are always in my heart! Love your wife - Jeannie

Carolyn Lamkins

January 12, 2016

I just want to say what a privilege it has been to know and work for such a great man. Whenever we came to him with an idea on how to improve something at the school he was always open and willing to listen. He is greatly missed for his lighthearted friendly ways.

Lucinda Montoya

January 12, 2016

I first met Bob during a tour that he gave my son Chance and I of SAGE when it was a k-12 school. He impressed Chance with his size and manner, "He was Cool". He impressed me with his caring attitude and the fact that the owner would take the time to give us a tour. I soon enrolled Chance in 7th grade, my daughter Maurissa in 4th and my baby, Alex in 2nd. Now grown, my kids have fond memories of their time at SAGE and of Mr. Duffy. I, myself am still at SAGE for what I think will be my 15th year. I started as a volunteer and then, through conversations with Bob became a full time employee. He gave me the opportunity to share my love of books and reading with hundreds of kids over the years. I have very fond memories of Bob. I remember our talks. He had grand ideas for his schools, for the kids we'd teach, for what we'd teach them. I remember when he played Santa. I remember our teams' trips to Anaheim and Washington D.c. for Core Knowledge training. I remember the HEART concert tickets he gave my daughter and me. Most of all, I remember how much he cared. HE cared about the people who worked for him and most of all the kids.He wanted to make a difference to kids who may have been lost and give them a place where they could see a future for themselves. I think he succeeded. I miss him.

Renee

January 11, 2016

What a wonderful man to work for! I thank you for having faith in me and I Pray that your vision will continue on behalf of the students that you were so dedicated to.

Ms. T

January 11, 2016

Bob,
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work for you. You are truly missed.

Jeannie

January 10, 2016

Bob - its been 2 years this weekend - I miss you so much. I have been trying so hard to carry on your dreams at Career Success. Please watch over me and guide me. Rest in Peace - Love your wife forever - Jeannie

Jeannie

November 25, 2015

Bob - Thanksgiving Day marks our 21st wedding anniversary. I miss you so but am thankful for our wonderful years together. You will always be my forever..Love

Peyton Ramirez

February 2, 2015

I've.. I've never been very good about expressing my feelings. I always found it hard to get the words out, and could never force myself to face the fact you had left us.. You were family, Mr. Duffy. You listened to my ideas, my complaints, you fought for me to get the education I dreamed of having and the classes I needed to pursue my dream. For that I can never repay you. I will miss you with all my heart. Hopefully you're in a better place.

January 12, 2015

"Remembering with you here, A life that was so dear." J. Bratton
It was a privilege to lead your school. Thank you for the gift!

L. Carr

December 9, 2014

Think about you and missing a great friend.

friends for ever
Ms.J

JEANNIE

November 26, 2014

Bob - 20 years ago today we vowed to love each other until death do us part. I will continue to love you forever - I miss you so. Rest peacefully - love Jeannie

Michael Garcia

May 28, 2014

Mr Duffy was a mentor, and a friend. It has been 8 years since my graduation from Career Success and I still think of him being influential in my life. I am very sad to have found out about his passing so late. But my condolences to his family and closest friends. Thank you for all that you have taught me and contributed in the education of so many. You will be missed!

Dennis Barreiro

May 19, 2014

R.I.P. Mr. Duffy, from a 6th grade student at Aetna Elementary School

Olivia De Anda

May 16, 2014

God bless everyone.

Russ Addis

May 11, 2014

When you look in the dictionary for the meaning of the word Teacher there is a picture of Mr. Duffy. I was privileged to have him as my teacher in 1970 at Wirt HS in Gary, In. May you find peace in the fact that the world lost one of it's finest human beings.

Michael Parham

March 14, 2014

Mr. Robert Duffy: a memoir.
As it has been a little more than 2 months since the passing of Bob, I am reminded of him almost every day. You see, Bob provided me with an opportunity to lead his ‘flagship' school, Career Success High School as the principle. Though my tenure was brief, it is not until the last few months that I truly understood how Bob's educational vision had such tremendous potential to impact the lives of the young people we so desperately, as educators, want to help.
For the last several months, I have been furthering my education in the field of ‘best-practices' for ‘at-risk' youth. To that end, I am currently enrolled in a class entitled “Multi-cultural Education in a Pluralistic Society.” It is the pedagogy I have been exposed to in this class that reminds me of Bob at every turn of the page. Bob's heartfelt compassion for his ‘kids,' his easy demeanor, those twinkling blue eyes and ever-present mirthful grin all personified EXACTLY what first and foremost motivates students, that the adults responsible for their education care about them. His embodiment of the principles of inclusion and self-betterment for all students was clearly inculcated in his heart. Bob was willing to try new ideas, new approaches, never losing his vision of doing what was in the best interest of his ‘kids.' This is evident by Bob's eclectic curriculum, always striving to offer the students an opportunity to seek, and most importantly, find, their niche!
It is this kindness, gentleness and willingness to ‘make education work for ALL students' that has left an indelible impression upon me and solidifies what I have been exposed to in the Multi-cultural Education class. Bob, I thank you so much for this! I will keep your principles close to me forever.
Michael W. Parham

Treena Bouque

March 6, 2014

Dear Family, I was very fond of Bob when I knew him in high school and remember how kind and funny he was...Karen, I know how much you will miss him...but he is now at peace..with Love my Friend, Treena

Ray (Skip) Coley

March 2, 2014

Coach Duffy (what I always called him) was my baseball coach at Wirt High School in Gary, Indiana back in 1966. He was always a great role model for high school students and a great man. I am so sorry I never visited him while I have been out here on the west coast.

February 12, 2014

Missing you...

Bob at RL Duffy HS 2010

Karen Dru Phelps

February 8, 2014

Bob at play... 2009

Karen Dru Phelps

February 8, 2014

Bob and son Tim, grandson Kevin 2008

Karen Dru Phelps

February 8, 2014

Bob and Jean 2012

Karen Dru Phelps

February 8, 2014

Bob for Career Success Schools

Karen Dru Phelps

February 8, 2014

Bob and sisters 2010

Karen Dru Phelps

February 8, 2014

Karen Dru Phelps

February 8, 2014

Bob from your little sis Karen Dru,
You have been my father-role and my teacher in life; every year another lesson and memory. Always growing and giving ideas to just Be Our Best. What a great many stories in life you have made easy to share with us all, now being our 'spirit in the sky'. Grateful.

Mom and Bobby

February 8, 2014

Charlie Chovil

February 6, 2014

Bob envisioned a world where every youth had the opportunity to a fine education; he believed that every youth would succeed in life if they were given a chance. For those ideals, Bob will always be remembered. On a personal note, Bob opened the door for my teaching career. For that, I will always remember him. Rest in Peace Bob.

February 5, 2014

Thinking of you

Karen Hoffman

February 4, 2014

I called Bob for a job interview 8 yrs ago and ever since, I have felt so fortunate to know him. Talk about perseverance and determination...he even would drove a few of us around neighborhoods to pass out flyers while awaiting his new knee. He was so insightful, kind, perceptive, and interested to make our school successful. He will be greatly missed!!

Rosie Portillo

February 3, 2014

Mr Duffy we didn't speak that much but you were wonderful man so nice to me and all my family thank you for the opportunity for working for your school you will be miss very much may god bless you.

Daneisha Flanniga

February 3, 2014

May there be many blessings and God's comfort be extended to the entire Duffy family.

Rest in peace, Mr Duffy

Belen Ramirez

February 3, 2014

I'm gonna start by saying Robert L Duffy was a great leader I am very thankful to have met a great man who did so many things in his life by helping so many people he has shown me "anything is possible" and I just want to say he didn't leave this earth with out accomplishing many things whether it was helping individuals find work or keep students out of trouble and getting a diploma because of him it has been possible for many to make it in this world yes Mr.Duffy is gone but he is truly not forgotten by many he has left an extraordinary legacy behind that I hope continues for others !!!!

Diandra Aguirre

February 3, 2014

I was shocked when I herd the news of your passing Mr.Duffy although I didn't get to see you that often you were a great mentor you gave all students at career success a chance they didn't think they had I speak for all when I say Thank you for the opportunity that you gave me to succeed at finishing high school and getting my diploma because I know many of us didn't have faith and by you opening such a wonderful school gave us that hope that determination we were looking for to succeed and for that I am truly grateful and thankful to have met such a great person Duffy you will truly be missed and remembered by all!!!

Kimberly white- grundy

January 28, 2014

Thank you for the leadership opportunity and the work you have done with children throughout the years. I appreciate your sincere apology during the conference a few years ago. You were a very nice man. RIP Bob

Gravity Griffith

January 25, 2014

Thank you for your leadership, example and vision. I have enjoyed knowing and working with you throughout my career as an educator. Our first contact was when I was working at another school. You took time to mentor and assist me in my duties. I have had the honor of working for you the last 5 years. May God bless you and your family. Thank you!

Ashley Haley

January 24, 2014

It made my heart drop when I heard the news of your passing Mr.duffy. You were a Great man that gave a second chance to many who others thought didn't deserve it. You gave mothers a road to a brighter future because of your in school day care an jobs you provided I am one of Proof. Because of you I am Providing a better Future to my son. The day I graduated and gave my speech and looked back and seen your smile I knew it was official I did it and as me and my son walked across the stage and you gave me a hug an shook my sons hand. He shook the hand of a man who opened up the Doors to our future. And For that I am FOREVER GREATFUL. Your name not only lives on through my Diploma but thru the opportunities you provided to countless of lives. May you rest in Peace Mr.duffy

January 24, 2014

You will be missed. May God bless you and your family. Mr. Gutierrez

Tim Duffy

January 23, 2014

For those wishing to make a donation in my Dad's memory, his High School is able to provide an Arizona tax credit for donations at http://csschools.schoolwires.net/site/default.aspx
The Arizona Foundation for Educational Choice has also made the following announcement:

Bob was the founder of Career Success School District and Robert L. Duffy High School. He was also one of the founding fathers of Arizona Charter Schools. He passed away on January 12, 2014.

Arizona Foundation for Educational Choice (AFEC) is a non-profit organization that holds the scholarship for the Founding Charters of Arizona. To honor his memory, they have extended an offer to encourage people who knew and cared about Bob to donate in his name to the foundation. His name will be added to Jim Aversion's name, and a scholarship can be awared in both their names. This scholarship fund is open to charter school students only; and in light of the work that all the founders have done in Arizona, this is a wonderful way to keep Bob's name and work alive.

If you are interested in donating, please send your check to:
Arizona Foundation for Educational Choice
433 N. Hall
Mesa, AZ 85203
(480) 833-0068

To donate with a credit card, call:
Richard Broderick or Sumare Mohammed at 877-225-2118,
Skyline Education Extension 1403 or 1405 on the South Campus

AFEC will notify the family of Bob Duffy and write a letter back to you as a receipt for your donation. This is a great way to honor those who have worked so hard to be certain Charter Schools are viable in Arizona

Pamela Petkovich McGrew

January 23, 2014

Very sadden by Bob's passing. We dated in 1992. He was kind, loving, flamboyant, very talented, and intelligent. So sorry that he is no longer here.

Jose Cortes

January 23, 2014

my thoughts and prayers go out to Mr Duffy's family. Mr. Duffy, was an amazing man. He believed in helping others. He was not only my first boss, but showed me a lot. His passion for helping these students was admirable. His humbleness and true passion for what he did will never be forgotten. RIP GOD BLESS

Garry Weiss

January 22, 2014

Many good memories of this great man and he was always kind and generous in many ways. I appreciated the opportunity to work for his school and try to make a difference for the students. That was his goal to help the students be successful and those who worked for him had that vision too. God bless his family and loved one during this time of mourning. Be strong and know we will cross paths again in holier spheres.

Maureen and Ted Racz

January 22, 2014

Bob,wishing you the Peace and Gentle comfort you deserve. May your soul rest in peace.

Yolanda Johnson

January 21, 2014

I don't know where to start, But i will say this Thank You Mr.Duffy, it was an honor being a part of your legacy not just me because of your legacy my kids graduated an is doing well. You touch so many hearts, and embraced the gifts that we as educators shared, you were a friend and a great boss ill always remember you. my heart aches knowing that your no longer here but now your healed and we can say thank you Jesus. I think about the good times that we all shared at the Unit (C-unit). I remember you stoping by the services at the school when we had church and you would sit and listen and when they started singing you would smile and clap, when the mime team would dance you were so into it ill miss that but I will always hold the memory in my heart.I am glad that we had a chance to talk on the Friday before you started you journey to Glory you can rest now see when I get to Heaven.

Love you Ms.J

Brian Shipman

January 21, 2014

Not in the last few, but for years we discussed education after our Saturday morning tennis. Bob was gracious, win or lose, and a wealth of knowledge. I learned a lot from him. Peace and love brother.

Rosemary Boeing

January 21, 2014

I had the honor and priviledge of working with Bob for several years. He always had his student's best interests at heart. Bob touched so many lives and he will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Bob's family.

Judy White Midtown Primary School

January 21, 2014

Bob's ingenuity, creativity, foresight & leadership will be missed. I am blessed to have known him and shared his visions!

Regina

January 21, 2014

Thank you for your Friendship, Kindness and Love. I will truly miss you. You've touched many lives and we are all grateful for that. Now is time for you to Rest. Love You,

January 21, 2014

I knew Bob through the ACSA and over the years got to know and appreciate his sense of humor. His sister, Sandy, had the same as mine and Bob would often call me mistakenly as my name is Sandy too. We often laughed about this which just gave me another point of contact with a man I both respected and liked.
Sandy Breece, Ed.D.
Telesis Center for Learning, Inc.

January 21, 2014

Happy, Harmless, never had a bad thing to say about anyone. Encouraging,and Supportive. He will be missed Tremendously. Peace and Blessings to his Family and everyone who loved him.

Paul LaBate

January 21, 2014

To a very kind, giving, thoughtful, caring man!! Bob, Mr. Duffy. You will be missed. Thank you for everything you have taught me in a short period of time. I will do everything in my power to help and continue what you have started. The average teacher tells, the good teacher explains, the great teacher INSPIRES. Thank you from all you have inspired. See you on the other side.

Matt Scheehle

January 20, 2014

I had the pleasure of working with Bob on technology for the schools and his love for the kids was evident in everything he did. I never got the chance to tell him but the experience of working with the schools gave me confidence in my career and gave me direction. Bob you led by example and I think that the world has lost an amazing man. Rest in Peace

Stella Albea

January 19, 2014

My uncle once said to me, think about who you would want sitting on a porch with you in a rocking chair when you get old. While this statement was meant for whom I wanted my spouse to be and my way of knowing I had met him, was when I could picture him sitting on the porch rocking beside me. I want to expand my uncle's words to include those who are closest to my heart; uncle Bob, there's a rocking chair on the porch with your name on it. Rest in peace. Thank you for your kindness and wisdom over the years. I love you, Stella

Sheree Connelly

January 19, 2014

Mr Duffy was a sweet man for the short time that I knew him, he and Mrs. Jean had an incredible love that could be felt when they were together in the same room. Praying for you in your time of sorrow, may God continue to comfort and heal your hearts.

Lucinda Montoya

January 19, 2014

When I first met Bob Duffy, I was impressed by his physical size and strength. As I got to know him, I became equally impressed by the size and strength of his spirit and dedication to our students. RIP Bob we'll keep on with your dream.

Renee Gayden

January 18, 2014

May the Lord light your way until the time when we are all united as One in His name. Rest in Peace my friend. Always Loved and never Forgotten. Your legacy shall live on.

Dr. Monika Nathan

January 18, 2014

Mr. Duffy was an amazing man and an honor to work for. He will be missed. What a legacy he left. God bless his family.

Vy Armour

January 18, 2014

Bob touched many lives with his passion for teaching,sports and life in general. He was creative and adventurous and his enthusiasm will be missed at family gatherings...he was a good dad, brother, uncle and friend. If there is a "sports" department in Heaven, I know he's in it and playing full court basketball, with two good knees.

Dr. Monika Nathan

January 17, 2014

Mr. Duffy was an amazing man and an honor to work for. He will be missed. What a legacy he left. God bless his family.

Joe Santifer

January 17, 2014

When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. Hold 0n to the memories, and let them guide you during this time of sadness.

Dar Cox

January 17, 2014

God Bless you "Coach"

Dar Cox

January 17, 2014

Your dad was my baseball coach at Gary Wirt HS. Coach had allot of passion for the game. He got my baseball career going. I thank him for that. The times i had been to Phoenix I wish I knew he lived there. A teacher, a mentor and a coach. And even though i never met his family i am sure he as loving father and husband. God Bless him.

Molly Doyle

January 17, 2014

Celebrating a life lived to the fullest, Bobby was a wonderful person to be around and always had a smile on his face. I will miss him dearly and send my deepest sympathies to his family and everyone who loved him.