Obituary published on Legacy.com by O'Connor Mortuary - Laguna Hills Chapel & Mortuary on Jan. 19, 2026.
Robert Michael Foley
September 24, 1941 – January 11, 2026
Celebrating and Remembering the Life of Bob Foley
Robert Michael Foley, affectionately known to all of us as Bob, was born on September 24,1941. He entered this world as the firstborn of twins, alongside his sister Marianne. Bob was the son of Robert Foley and Sophie Przybylinski-proudly Irish and Polish in heritage-and part of a lively family of five children: Bob, Marianne, Steve, Jim, and the youngest, Maureen. Today, Maureen is the only surviving sibling in his beautiful family.
Bob was born in
Quincy, Massachusetts, and as a teenager, his family moved across the country to California. They settled in Pico Rivera, where Bob attended high school and began shaping the man many of us came to know and love. He continued his education through junior college and, later in life, with the encouragement and support of his beloved wife Susie, earned his bachelor's degree from Cal Poly Pomona-a testament to his perseverance and lifelong willingness to grow.
Bob had many passions throughout his life. He loved games-especially card games like poker-and enjoyed gambling and the thrill of a good horse race. Later in life, he discovered bowling, which became his true passion and a source of great joy and camaraderie.
His work life was just as varied as his interests. Over the years, Bob held many jobs, one of the most memorable being Helm's Bakery-which comes as no surprise to anyone who knew his love for sweets, baked goods, and desserts of all kinds. He also worked for a time at a juvenile detention hall for boys, showing a quieter strength and sense of responsibility. Eventually, Bob went to work for his brother Jim, a true entrepreneur ahead of his time. Jim opened a gas station and dairy market-an early model of the mini-marts we know today, long before they became common.
Working alongside Jim, Bob learned the business and eventually opened his own gas station and dairy market in the city of Orange, located on the corner of Taft and Tustin. He owned and operated that business for over 20 years, building something lasting through hard work and dedication. After selling the business, Bob stepped into what many would agree was one of his greatest roles-becoming one of the best house husbands anyone could ask for. Bob was always there when he was needed. He ran errands without hesitation and never minded being flexible for the people he loved. He picked up Marcella from high school anytime she called so she wouldn't have to walk up the hill from Aliso Niguel, and he came to Ryan's rescue more than once when a bus was missed on the way to Santa Margarita. These small acts of kindness spoke volumes about the kind of man Bob was-reliable, loving, and quietly selfless.
Bob was raised Catholic and received all of his sacraments in the Church, which remained an important part of his life. In fact, Bob and Susie were remarried at Corpus Christi by Father Fred. Being here today, celebrating Bob's life during this beautiful Mass, feels like a full and fitting circle-a true coming home as we lay him to rest. Bob will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his steady presence, his humor, his passions, and his unwavering love. He lived a full life, and he leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, kindness, and care that will remain with us always.
Funeral Mass:
Corpus Christi Catholic Church
27231 Aliso Viejo Pkwy, Aliso Viejo CA
Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 12:00 PM