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Robert Riordan Obituary
After a courageous 11-month battle with cancer, our beloved Robert "Bob" Joseph Riordan, 68, of South Kingstown, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his wife and son on Monday, September 26, 2022. He was the loving husband to Karen Watson and father to Brian Riordan. Born in Boston, MA on March 16, 1954, he was the son of the late John William and Margaret Mary (Kelly) Riordan.
Bob grew up in Abington, MA and attended Boston College High School before graduating Boston College proper and proudly fulfilling his status as a true "double eagle". He soon began a vibrant career in the television business that spanned over 30 years, which afforded him the opportunity to travel the globe and make a world of friends along the way. Among his many posts in the TV industry which included stints at TV38 in Boston, USA Network and the XFL, his proudest was his final stop at DirecTV where he was Senior Vice President of National Ad Sales.
Throughout his life he took great joy in golf, Boston sports, a good trip to the grocery store—but most of all, his family & friends. A former member of Woodway Country Club in Darien, CT and most recently Members Club at Marco in Naples, FL and Weekapaug Golf Club in Westerly, RI—Bob cultivated an incredible group of friends everywhere he went and always sought to bring people together to enjoy life. He has long been renowned in his inner circle for his sense of humor, big personality, and even bigger heart. Bob enjoyed retirement from his homes in Naples, FL and South Kingstown, RI, along with frequent trips to Ireland with friends and family.
Besides his loving wife Karen, he leaves his son Brian Riordan and ex-wife Kathleen, siblings John, Adelaide, Marie, and Tara, and many adored nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob's name to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306 or to an animal shelter of your choice.
A celebration of Bob's life will be held at 1:00pm on Sunday, October 9, 2022 at the Buckler-Johnston Funeral Home, 121 Main St. Westerly. Family and friends may gather from 11:00am until the time of the service at the funeral home. Reception information will be announced at the service.
For online condolences, please visit www.buckler-johnston.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Riordan
Sponsored by Buckler-Johnston Funeral Home - Westerly.
Mark Mulhall
February 18, 2023
I just heard of Bob´s passing from BC magazine and my condolences to his family. Bob and I were roommates in a house in Newton Centre with Jeff Lewin (both of us from NJ) during his freshman year and we had a lot of laughs. His story is one of great success in business as well as family, most importantly. We both named a son Brian as well. BC was a really special place and Bob was a really good guy. May God bless you with the fondness of his memory.
Jim Nicoletti
February 12, 2023
I just read the Boston College Magazine's notice of Bob's passing, and I am so, so sorry and wish that I had known sooner. Bob was a terrific guy who was a lot of fun, and I have two distinct memories of him while we attended BC together: 1. The Big Red House on Commonwealth Avenue and the great parties that Bob and roommates hosted, and 2. Bob always saying that "BC is a breeze, compared to BC High..."!
My sincere condolences to the family and all who loved and miss him. RIP, Bobby.
Jim Nicoletti '78
Wellesley Hills, MA
Frank and Pat Lenzi
October 12, 2022
My condolences to the family. Golfed with Bob in Marco, he was a true gentleman. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Dorcas and kalise Cross
October 8, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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James (Jim) W. Keever
October 5, 2022
God speed Bob! I loved our times together at Woodway and in media!
With deepest sympathies & heartfelt condolences.
With love from the Keever family!
Bernard Rosselli
October 5, 2022
Dear Karen and Brian,
Debbie and I are deeply saddened with the loss of Bob; although we´ve only had eight years together he was the type of guy that made us feel like we were lifelong friends.
Please know in your hearts that he will live on with us forever.
Love you,
Bernie & Debbie
Shorna
October 4, 2022
My sincere condolences to the Riordan Family, especially to his son Brian, who had a special relationship with his dad. May the peace of God and the loving memories of your father, brother, uncle comfort your hearts during this difficult time.
Linda & Mark Polinko
September 30, 2022
Our sincere condolences on the death of your dear Bobby. We know you provided a great loving support system during this difficult journey with cancer. Our prayer is that your family feels the presence and peace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Joe Witte
September 29, 2022
Bob was one of my first bosses. He was truly a "big personality". Always good for a laugh, not afraid to tell people what he thought, but caring. I was a newbie and he had me out at his house to watch the Bucs- Pats game. He handled the loss like a champ, LOL. You'll be missed Bob. Thanks for your leadership and mentorship.
Dave Middleton
September 29, 2022
We love you Bob. Karen, you've been a rock and a blessing. We are here to support you as your heart takes time to heal. With sympathy, Pat and Dave
Donna M Caddick
September 29, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Riordan Family. Love The Caddick and Kiesel clan.
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Memorial Events
for Robert Riordan
Oct
9
Visitation
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Buckler-Johnston Funeral Home - Westerly121 Main Street, Westerly, RI 02891
Oct
9
Celebration of Life
1:00 p.m.
Buckler-Johnston Funeral Home - Westerly121 Main Street, Westerly, RI 02891
Funeral services provided by:
Buckler-Johnston Funeral Home - Westerly121 Main Street, Westerly, RI 02891
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