Robert Buchan

In Loving Memory of Mr. Robert "Bobu" Buchan 11/11/1941 – 02/15/2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mr. Robert "Bobu" Buchan 83 years old, an esteemed honorary member and former Board of Trustees member (1985–1986) of Newton Country Club. Bob passed away early Saturday morning, February 15th, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and unwavering dedication.
Born and raised in Newark, N.J., a proud member of Newton Country Club since 1971, Bob was known for his kindness, camaraderie, and the countless friendships he nurtured over the years. His presence on the course and in the clubhouse will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Beyond the fairways, Bob dedicated more than 30 years to education as an administrator and principal for the Hopatcong Board of Education. Even after stepping back, his passion for teaching continued as a math instructor for four more years before he retired.
Retirement, however, did not slow Bob down. A true adventurer, he explored over 100 countries, embracing the world with a traveler's spirit and an insatiable curiosity. His love for travel was so great that he even worked at Walmart to fund his next journey, proving that adventure was always just a trip away. Bob was an avid sports fan, especially devoted to his beloved New York Mets. Nearly every evening, he could be found in spirited conversation with his dear friend Dick Celli, discussing the latest games and stats with a passion that never faded. A fixture in the 7am Golfers Group at Newton Country Club, Bobu was known not only for his love of the game but also for his own unique language-a collection of sayings and expressions that often left his friends amused and occasionally puzzled. Those who knew him best understood, and even when they didn't, Bob was always happy to explain.
Bob is survived by his son Doug and his wife Julie, his daughter Nicole and her husband Eric, his cherished grandchildren Sydney, Brooke, Jamie, Brielle and Casey who will continue to carry his spirit of adventure, kindness, and love for life. Though he has played his final round, Bobu's legacy lives on in the fairways he walked, the lives he touched, and the memories he leaves behind. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.
*A Life Well Played*
The morning sun on fairways bright, A gentle swing, a perfect flight. Bobu walked with steps so sure, A heart so kind, a soul so pure. Since '71, he graced our greens, With laughter, wisdom, lifelong dreams. A trustee once, a friend to all, His presence echoed through our halls. A scholar first, a guide, a light, In Hopatcong, he shone so bright. For decades long, he shaped young minds, Then found the world, where wonders bind. A traveler bold, his spirit free, Through lands afar, across the sea. One hundred countries, tales untold, A life of stories, bright and bold. With every dawn, at seven sharp, He'd tee it up, he'd play his part. A language his, unique and grand, Yet those who knew would understand. Evenings spent in sports debate, The Mets, the games-his heart's estate. With friends he'd chat, with joy so wide, A passion shared, a love, a guide. But of all the joys that filled his days, None shone as bright in life's grand maze. As those he loved, his greatest pride, His grandkids always by his side. Their laughter rang, their voices sweet, Their love made every day complete. To them, he was a guiding star, A grandpa loved both near and far. Though now he's gone, his voice remains, In morning winds, in evening rains. A golfer's laugh, a traveler's cheer, His spirit lingers ever near. So raise a glass, recall his name, A life well-lived, a noble game. For Bobu's played his final round, Yet in our hearts, he's always found.