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Robert Church Obituary
Resident of Los Gatos
2/37 - 5/12
Found his passion in teaching at Pioneer High School, primarily in science but loved supporting drama. Many of his students referred to him as 'most respected teacher and cool sub'. He delighted in his cameo roles of bartender and conductor in many of the schools drama productions.
In his long battle with prostate cancer, the disease never robbed him of his spirit, gentle nature and loving way.
The wind beneath my wings and a special blessing to me for 50 years.
Donations may be made to 'Pioneer Drama Bob Church Scholarship Fund' 1290 Blossom Hill Rd., San Jose, CA 95118. Attn: Steve Dini. No services by his request.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Church
Edlynn Nau
March 23, 2025
My favorite teacher in the early 70´s. He made me adore Science and we had so much fun in Mrs. Gardners "Hello Dolly." When I went away to college, he´d have me come and be a guest speaker in his physiology class. He came to my parent´s 25th anniversary with his completely adorable wife! When I turned 21, and was still away at college, he sent me a Birthday card (which I still have)! He was knowledgeable, creative, and personable. He is one of those people that reached out and made life a little kinder and a little easier for everyone. When I return from Washington State to California, I was going to look him up, only to find that he had just passed. Heartbroken, because I know it would´ve done us both good for a little visit. -Edlynn Nau
Anthony Aguliar
September 9, 2020
Mr. Church RIP, you were a great educator and inspiration. Thank you for being my teacher at PHS. I find myself remembering you every now and then. For those of us who were in your class in '90-'90 I always remember your explanation of Lachrymal glands, the example you used a bottle of wine, Lachrima Christi. I also remember the cold hard cash you would give out as a price, refrigerated dollar coin!! Condolences to those who survive him. He was an awesome teacher. Anthony Aguilar class of '91
June 7, 2012
Mr. Church, you will be missed! You were a remarkable man and teacher. You were always interested in your students' lives, not only about school, but everyday things too; like our basketball games and other activities. You made a difference, and that is what you will always be remembered for.
Class of 1985
Cheryl Legos Reszka
JOY BRANSCUM
June 4, 2012
HAVE KNOW BOB FROM DAY ONE AT PIONEER
HIGH SCHOOL. HE IS A LEGION IN HIS OWN TIME. REST IN PEACE BOB.. JOY
Scot Raffelson
June 4, 2012
Mr. Church taught us all how to treat eachother..... I was able to share with my daughter why I was in the drama club, becuase of Mr. Church, as she embarks on here glee club experience. Thank you dear man for all your gifts to us. - Pioneer Class of 86
Jeannette Forrest
June 4, 2012
Prayers for the Church family....Mr. Church was a positive influence during my four years in high school. He was an awesome teacher, and one of my biggest cheerleaders at my volleyball games. His love of education, students, and life was amazing! I have been teaching middle school for 18 years, and when I started the profession, I aspired to be a teacher just like him! We have lost such an honorable man- too early. I will never forget you Mr. Church.
Pioneer Class of 1986
Riley
Mike and Mary Wond
June 2, 2012
Mike and I had the privelege of knowing Bob for only a short time but he was such a kind, nice man. Our Riley (Tibetan Terrier) loved going over for a "sleepover" with Grandma Shirley and Bob. We will keep in close touch with Shirley as she misses Bob so much. We are impressed by the comments from his students . A wonderful legacy to leave. Mike and Mary Wond
Daniel Stout
June 1, 2012
Mr. Church was the man that captivated me as a teenager. I was blessed to have him for 3 years at Pioneer. He taught me so much and showed me what a GREAT teacher is. I was lucky enough to talk to him a month ago. He still remembered me and my story. He even remembered the car I drove! Truly a remarkable man that will be missed. Mrs. Church my prayers and thoughts. Your husband touched so many in such positive ways. I am proud to call him my favorite teacher I ever had. Class of 1990
Ana W
June 1, 2012
I was blessed to have known Mr. Church when in school in the '70's, and to have performed with Bob in the Glue Factory acting troupe. I cherish every moment and memory. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and many, many friends.
Tom Stout
June 1, 2012
Mr. Church was an amazing person. Great teacher and great person. I was fortuante enough to have him as a teacher and iteract not just in the classroom setting...truly a great mentor. My condolences to his family.
Tom Stout
Class of 1992
Karen and family
May 31, 2012
Uncle Bob, we love and miss you.
Amy McDonnell Lawton, Class of 1991
May 31, 2012
Mrs. Church, I'm thinking of you during this difficult chapter in your life. He was an amazing teacher and a great addition as the bartender in my first play, Bye Bye Birdie at Pioneer. He will NEVER be forgotten. Amy, Class of 1991
Michele Yano
May 31, 2012
A loss beyond measure, my prayers go out to the friends and family of Mr. Church. What a gift to have had the privilege of knowing him, and what a joy it was to have him as a teacher all those years ago. Pioneer HS Class of '75. Michele Vecchione Yano
May 30, 2012
As a member of the Class of 72, I was privileged to be in his class. As a parent of high school students I was thrilled that he was there for my kids. You were loved and will be missed. Judy Squatrito Hackett
May 30, 2012
Will be remembered fondly by the class of 1972 Pioneer High School
Linda Polillo Brown
May 30, 2012
A very special Man with a tender smile and a warm heart.
Karen Nigro-Mandella
May 30, 2012
A very special man. He will be greatly missed. Pioneer HS Class of '81
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