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Robert Doyle Obituary
He was born in Pawtucket, the son of Dorothy (Brown) Doyle of Pawtucket and the late James Doyle. Mr. Doyle was the Cross Country, Indoor and Outdoor Track Coach at Woonsocket High School since 1996. Mr. Doyle was the co-owner of Doyle Sporting Goods in Pawtucket from 1973-1993. He was a 1967 graduate of Hope High School, Providence where he was an All-State Athlete in Track. Mr. Doyle was a 1972 graduate of the University of Texas, El Paso where he was a member of the 1969 NCAA, Division 1 Cross Country Championship Team. He was a seven time winner of the Ocean State Marathon and was a frequent runner in the Boston Marathon where he finished 5th, 7th, 11th, 12th, and 15th and in 1979 set the Rhode Island record with a finish time of 2:14. He was at 37 the youngest member elected to the City of Pawtucket's Hall of Fame. Mr. Doyle was one of the few athletes who won marathons in the 70's, 80's, and 90's while becoming the most accomplished marathon runner in Rhode Island Track and Field history.
Besides his wife and mother, he leaves a daughter, Mackenzie Doyle of Tiverton, four sons, Patrick R. Doyle of Seekonk, Rhode Island State Police Trooper Brendan R. Doyle of Pawtucket, Brian R., and Connor J. Doyle of Tiverton, a brother, James J. Doyle of Seekonk, and a sister, Margaret Darling of Harrington, Delaware as well as several nieces and nephews.
The funeral for Mr. Doyle will be from the MANNING-HEFFERN FUNERAL HOME, 68 Broadway, Pawtucket, and Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Joseph's Church, Walcott St., Pawtucket at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in Pocassett Hill Cemetery, Tiverton. Calling Hours will be Tuesday, 4-8 p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Doyle Family Children's Education Fund, c/o Becky, Citizens Bank, 409 East Ave. Pawtucket RI 02860 in Bobby's memory. For directions and guestbook signatures please visit www.manningheffern.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Doyle
Jesus Berrio
January 6, 2008
My Sympathy to the Doyle Family. I ran against Bobby many times in the 80's. Although he beat me often, he always had a smile and a kind word. I will miss him. Jesus
Renée Ascher
December 28, 2007
Lori and Family,
So very sad to hear about your beloved husband, father, and son.
My the Almighty shelter you under his wing and may Bob be in his loving care.
(Bubbe) from the CF
Joyce Mello
December 28, 2007
Lori, what a tribute to Bob seeing all those people standing in long lines to pay their respects to you and the family...that spoke volumes of the impact Bob had on many lives. Like I said when you and I hugged at his services, we are all here for you in your time of sorrow and need. The Doyle Family is a fixture in our Town and community and anything we can do to help, we will..
On behalf of Tiverton Little League and Joyce, Dave & Mitchell Mello
john providence
December 24, 2007
very sorry to hear about mr doyles passing was a big fan back when he was kickin butt in the ocean state marathon rest in peace bob god bless
Doug Webster
December 21, 2007
Jim,
I received an e-mail yesterday with the news that Bob had passed away. I want to express my deepest sympathy to both you and all of Bob's family. I will always remember Bobby as the person with a smile on his face and his love for life. I recently had the opportunity to speak with Bob after many years and I could tell he had not changed. He laughed and joked as he always did and spoke of how proud he was of his family. Bobby was a good friend to me when I needed a good friend in my life and I will always appreciate him for that.
Michael J. Pesare
December 20, 2007
I just learned of Bobby Doyle's passing and I wanted to extend my sympathies to his family. I, too, was a competitive distance runner in the 1980's and Bobby Doyle was a tremendous source of inspiration. Regular visits to Doyle's Sporting Goods provided opportunities to talk running and I enjoyed every visit. The news saddens me but his memory will remain strong in those who he touched.
Highcove
December 20, 2007
Lori,Pat,Buzz and family,
I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to the Doyle fmaily for the loss of Coach. He was a PROFESSIONAL in and out of running. His unselfishness reflected in his coaching style. Coach would never stop teaching different strategies or giving encouragement. He gave encouragement to every runner, whether it was his own team of participants from other schools. He instilled that the sport of running is based on individual achievement while emphasizing team concept.
Coach always had time for his athletes. It may have come on Sunday mornings racing 10miles from the Doyle household and eating Lori's famous delicious pancakes. Or allowing us to stop by or call to discuss events which his athletes participated in.
He was an inspiration, role model, mentor and a friend. Thank you for your dedication to the sport. You will be missed by all.
Willie Walton
December 20, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Doyle fammily. Bobby was a great runner and a great friend.
Gerry Beagan
December 19, 2007
I ran my first marathon at Ocean State 1976 when Bobby won the first of his seven victories at Newport. I knew nothing about him before that cold, blustery day. But, much like Bill Rodgers, both "Everyman" type athletes, Bobby inspired, enthused and excited me about our sport.
He was a fierce, gritty competitor who asked no quarter and gave none in his pursuit of the finish line. Yet, outside competition, he was a kind, gentle, decent man who lived and loved life to the fullest. I am deeply saddened by his untimely demise.
Over time, I came to know the entire Doyle family and recount my every encounter with everyone a pure pleasure.
I express my sincere, heartfelt condolences.
Bob Bischoff
December 19, 2007
My sincere condolences to the entire Doyle family.
Bobby was truly a running legend in New England. His work ethic, love of the sport and desire to succeed made him an exceptional runner. He touched so many and will continue to influence us through his life’s stories. Bobby will continue to inspire us all…
He will be truly missed, but never forgotten.
Deepest Sympathies,
Bob Bischoff
Joshua Lemois
December 19, 2007
My only memory of Uncle Bobby was at RI Hospital during our families tough time with Buzz. It was a pleasure meeting him and he seemed like such a great person. I send my deepest sympathy and prayers to the Doyle Family!! Buzz and Pat, I love you guys and I will be praying for you!! Also, to Brian, Connor, McKenzie, Lori and the rest of the Doyle family, I send my prayers for comfort and peace to you in your loss. May God comfort all of the Doyle family in this time
The Sinsky Family
December 19, 2007
Our condolences to Lori and her family in your time of sorrow. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all even though we were unable to attend the services.
With love,
Irwin Levin (Mac's Radio)
December 19, 2007
Jim,
We are all sorry to hear of your loss. Your brother will be missed. He was a special person who was always there for everyone. Please keep in touch & let me know if I can do anything.
Mr.Mrs John Barros
December 19, 2007
Our deepest sympathies to all the Doyle family. May Bobby rest in peace.Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the family during this difficult time
Melissa Ramos
December 18, 2007
My prayers go out to the entire family. May God bless you all during this difficult time.
George McLaughlin
December 18, 2007
May the gates of heaven open wide for Bobby. He was an unpretentious, unselfish man who taught us humor, good will and courage. We miss him already. May Our Lord let him in the gates quickly. One thing is for sure: Bobby will be running in place while he waits. Thank you, Bobby, for your kindness, your encouragement and your friendship.
May God bless the entire Doyle family.
Brenda Venable
December 18, 2007
To Lori, Boys & Mackenzie,
I am so sorry for your loss. Bobby has offered so many kind and encouraging words to Bronson over the last few years he will greatly be missed by all these young runners. He was truly an inspiration to all he has touched in his life.
The Delzenero Family
December 18, 2007
Lori,Brendan,Patrick,Brian,Connor & Mackenzie,
We were so sorry to hear about Bob. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time. You are in our thoughts and prayers and May God always hold you and the children in the palm of his hands.
john mclaughlin
December 18, 2007
I AM GRATEFUL TO BOBBY FOR REPLACING ME AS A COACH.BOBBY IMPACTED THE LIVES OF MANY WOONSOCKET STUDENT-ATHLETES.HIS GREATNESS LIVES ON IN THEIR LIVES .
H.Wayne Curtis
December 18, 2007
In 1976 , I ran in the first Ocean State Marathon, and then the next ten. Bobby Doyle became a model to me for how to train and persist in distance running.His achievements on the road are rivaled only by his life influences on a host of runners.He cast a long shadow into the future for runners and coaches.
Annie Moore
December 18, 2007
Lori, I cannot tell you how saddened I am to hear about this loss to you, your children and the rest of Bobby's family. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Norma Scott
December 18, 2007
Connor and Family.Our thoughts and Prayers are with you.(Corey Scott Tiverton basketball 2006)
Michael Katz
December 18, 2007
As coach of the Barrington High School Boys Cross Country team I speak for all of us in offering our deepest sympathy and prayers to the Doyle family. It was a joy competing and working with Coach Doyle. He will be deeply missed.
nora mcrae
December 18, 2007
Dear Doyle Family -
Although we never met Bobby, we were introduced to your family through Brendan. Our daughter, Jess, told us how Bobby would be at Brendan's side day and night, and never gave up hope for a full recovery. With that type of devotion, I'm not surprised at all the accolades being written about Bobby.
During this most difficult time, please accept our prayers and thoughts for all the Doyles. My God bless you and being you peace.
Phil and Nora McRae
DEBBIE SIMONELLI
December 17, 2007
Dear Doyle Family's, Please accept my dearest sympathy,i never met Mr Doyle,but i was truly inspired by his will for his son,and this is just so sad,when i read it in the morning paper i cried to think how much he will be missed,no time is the right time.may god bless you all,and keep each other close.
Bill Thornhill
December 17, 2007
My sincere condolences to the Doyles. Glancing through this Guest Book, and seeing the tributes from runners and colleagues, reminds me of the profound impact Bob and family had on RI running in the era of his dominance and beyond.--I have never forgotten the intensity of his training and racing, and his passsion for the sport.
Jimmy Fallon
December 17, 2007
I was so saddened to hear about Bobby. Aside from his running achievements Bobby was a great person. He and Jimmy and Debbie were always so helpful to me back in the 80's, that I can only try to be as helpful to others. My consolences to all the Doyle family.
Pat Malachowski
December 17, 2007
Dear Doyle Family,
Our families are remembering your family in our prayers. Growing up in large "running" families from Cumberland, some of our fondest memories are of the Arnold Mills 4th of July Road Races, The Blessing of the Fleet, The Ocean State Marathons, and The 1980 Olympic Marathon Trials. Bobby was an ever-present, highly respected talent who left both his competition and the spectators awe-inspired. His work ethic, courage, love of running, and love for his family are his legacy. Wishing you peace.
Sincerely,
The Malachowski and Grundy Families
Ruth Barkley
December 17, 2007
Peggy Darling & Family, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Amy Elliott
December 17, 2007
~~ To the Doyles ~~
I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy to your entire family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Mr. Doyle touched and inspired so many people in so many ways. He leaves behind a great legacy.
Unfortunately, we lost a wonderful man and heaven gained an Angel.
Greg Wilcox
December 17, 2007
On behalf of the East Bay Striders, our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
sandy,bruce and aj manuel
December 17, 2007
Dear Lori and children,
Words can not express how sorry we all are for you immense loss. We're praying for strength and solace for you all.
bill mcnulty
December 17, 2007
my deepest sympathies to the entire family
Gloria Ratti, Vice President, Boston Athletic Association
December 17, 2007
Perhaps I may speak on behalf of Bobby's Boston friends who recall his many fine achievements in Boston and Rhode Island. He propelled running to great heights and many athletes were proud to participate whenever Bobby competed. His friends at the Boston Athletic Association extend their deepest sympathy and condolences to his family.
J Laporte
December 17, 2007
My sons ran track because of great role models like Bobby Doyle.
He will be missed.
The LaPorte Family
steven conway
December 17, 2007
i cannot express the sorrow & disbelief i felt upon hearing of the loss of such an inspiring human being; Bobby was my supervisor at Johnson & Wales in the 80's, best boss i ever had & a good friend as well...
Louise Heroux
December 17, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Doyle family. I am Corey Brunelle's grandmother and he really admired and respected his coach. I'm sure that Robert will live on in the children that he coached and inspired to be the best they can be. Rest in Peace.
Wendy Whitford-Gould
December 17, 2007
To the entire Doyle family, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to you - to my boys, Garrett&Ian he was an inspiration they were in awe every time they saw him at either a High School Meet or the Jr. Olympics - he always took the time to say hi & wish them well- his legacy, encouragement will live on in every life he has touched during his remarkable life. May God bless you all. Wendy Whitford -
Garrett & Ian Gould (Setinel Striders)
Michael Pieroni
December 17, 2007
Through his performances on the roads and his caring nature, he not only made all of us better athletes, but more importantly better people. Long live the spirit of a great performer in the race of life.
Sarkis Varadian
December 17, 2007
Doyle family:
My sympathies on the passing of Bobby. I was lucky enough to consider myself a friend-in-law as a result of training with Hollie over the years. I recall calculating Bobby's per mile pace after his 2:14 in Boston while a student at Cranston East in 1979 and then struggling to complete two miles at that pace.
He will be missed but has left quite a legacy for all his children and athletes to be proud. Stay strong.
Lance Kiley
December 17, 2007
Sorry to hear about your loss.Please accept my deepest sympathies.He was a great ambassador for Rhode Island when he was at UTEP.
This was the happiest day for some of us. Brendan up and walking. Uncle Bobby has the biggest smile on his face..
December 17, 2007
Uncle Bobby and Brendan at RI Hospital
December 17, 2007
corey lariviere
December 17, 2007
Brendan, Pat, Brian, Connor, McKenzie,Lori and the Doyle family, I want you to know you are all in my thoughts and prayers during this time. May god be with you all and give you the strength to get through. My last memories of uncle bobby was at RI hospital, him watching over Buzzys bedside day by day. I would think to myself, what a wonderful father he was. I remember sitting next to him in those uncomfortable hospital chairs and seeing how happy he would get when the nurse would come out and tell us his son had given the thumbs up. I am so glad that i was able to share that time with him. We now have a beautiful angel watching over us. I truly am sorry for your loss, I love you all and God Bless.
Darryl H.
December 17, 2007
Dear Lori and Family,
You are in our thoughts and Prayers.
God Bless,
Darryl, Terry Danny and Jesse
Chris Magill
December 17, 2007
All I can say is Bobby was the MAN!. I will always remeber my days with him at Doyles Sports. My heart and prayers go out to the entire Doyle Family.
RITCA (Rhode Island Track Coaches Association)
December 17, 2007
Our deepest sympathies to the Doyle family. Know that the prayers of the RI running/coaching community are with you.
Dee LaMay
December 17, 2007
Dear Lori, Brian, Conor, Kenzie & Bobby's family,
I am so sad for the huge loss that you are facing. Please try and keep the fun times close at heart. What a wonderful dad, husband, runner, and most importantly PERSON Bobby has been. My heart & love go out to all of you.
Love,
dee LaMay
Former NK Rec Track Coach
Bill Flannagan
December 16, 2007
My deepest sympathy to Coach Jim and the entire Doyle family.
Beverly McKinney
December 16, 2007
I'm so sorry for your tragic loss and I'm keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Mark Drapeau
December 16, 2007
My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Doyle family on the loss of Robert.
My late father (Albert Drapeau) started running marathons at around 50 years old. On several occasions, he ran along side with "Bobby". I also have a brother and a sister that were marathon runners. For some time, they were all frequent customers of the Pawtucket store, not just to buy running shoes - but for friendly advice.
There is something about a marathon runner that can inspire each of us - no matter what the circumstances, to endure. That is a lesson that stays with us forever. May the many memories you have bring you comfort in the days ahead. "Bobby" will be missed by many.
Thomas Egan
December 16, 2007
Lori & Children
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of deep sorrow. Bobby was and inspriation to all of the Rhode Island and Mass. running community for many many years. He will be greatly missed by many runners and ex runners who new Bobby.
bill flood
December 16, 2007
MAY GOD BLESS THE DOYLE FAMILY BOBBY AND JIMMY HELPED ME MANY TIMES,WHEN I PUT SOFTBALL TEAMS ON THE FIELD IN PAWTUCKET. A VERY SAD DAY
Jack Thornhill Donna Faidell
December 16, 2007
Bobby was a running ambassador for the state of Rhode Island. His tenacity and work ethic will stay with those teams he coached. The love and devotion he had for his family is his true legacy. The running community, as well as all those he touched throughout his life, will miss him.
Diana Lundin
December 16, 2007
Dear Lori and family: No words can express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. Be of comfort to each other in these dark days ahead and know your friends, virtual and otherwise, are there to lean on whenever you need.
Butch Ouellette - Hope Track '68-'72
December 16, 2007
With sincere condolences to the entire Doyle family. Bobby was arguably the leader in a long line of great runners at Hope. He will be missed by of those who ran "behind" him.
Debbie Behan
December 16, 2007
Lori....Thinking of you all during this diffucult time.
May you find strength through faith and love.
Debbie Behan
Tom Grundy
December 16, 2007
My deepest condolences to the entire Doyle family. It has been my privilege to have experienced Bobby's courage, charisma, wit, and friendship. May you all draw strength from his legacy.
Don Powers
December 16, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
donna
December 16, 2007
never met you...yet watched you win those marathons...you are a true inspiration for anyone, in any aspect of life....recently in the spotlight as a result of your son's plight, people all over were routing for him and feeling for you. i was shocked to hear about your passing...rest in peace mr. doyle....please know there are people (even those you never met) who have been inspired by your actions.
Tricia Evans
December 16, 2007
My sincerest heartfelt sympathy to Lori, all of the children, & the entire family. May Bob rest in peace. Your burden is large. Put your faith in our Lord & he will guide you through the rapids of this terrible grief.
Lori, I hope you received my GW email today.
Sincerely,
Don & Tricia Evans (your CF friend & neighbor)
Ret. Lt.Jerry Prendergast
December 16, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Doyle Family. My the prayers of family & friends comfort you at this time.
December 16, 2007
Lori, and children. Our thoughts are with you in this time of deep sorrow.
With deepest sympathy, the Lochotzki's Cumberland, RI (your old neighbors)
Jim Bowden
December 16, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the the whole Doyle family.Please accepy my condolences.
Betty Cushing
December 16, 2007
Although I did not know Bobby personally, he will be missed by many for all he did. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this sorrowfully time.
Sincerely,
Betty Cushing
(A friend of Jim's)
CHARLES "AQUAMAN" MEYERS
December 16, 2007
TRULY A FRIEND AND MENTOR TO ALL US EARLY RUNNERS WITH JOHNSON AND WALES
AND OCEAN STATE TRACK CLUB. MY CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY
James Hirst
December 16, 2007
So little can be said during such pain to his family. We (the Rhode Island Running Community) feel especially, 'the old school, 70's forward' who knew the man and the athlete the greatness of not only himself but the Doyle family and what they have meant to us as a running family/community and those who know the Doyles on a deeper level.
The Doyle's are a Rhode Island gift.
Whitey Girard
December 16, 2007
Our sympathies goes to his wife and members of his family. Bobby was a good friend and a great person who greatly enhanced the lives of many in the running community. He will be missed geatly by all. Our sympathy on this tragic loss. Whitey and Marie Girard
Karen Woodard
December 16, 2007
Lori, My thoughts are with you and the children during this very sad time.
Dave Farley
December 16, 2007
My sympathies to Bobby's family. He clearly was RI's most outstanding distance runner and made a positive impact on many RI high school track and cross country athletes. He also was at the forefront of RI and New England road racing in the 1970s and 1980s; it was an exciting time for runners and Bobby was the poster boy of that era. Bobby will be missed.
David (The Dude) Levin
December 16, 2007
I am sorry to hear the news of your loss. Bobby was a special person who will be missed by all
Joe Bennett
December 16, 2007
Deepest sympathies from the Bennett family. Bobby was a great father, coach, and athlete, We will miss you.
Steve DeMagistris
December 16, 2007
My sincere condolences to the entire Doyle family on your great loss. I have many fond memories of Bobby during our years together on the UTEP track team. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.
Sam Palestine
December 16, 2007
Truly a good person and one of the most respected marathon runners I have known. Quietly Powerful.
Steve Einhorn
December 16, 2007
I am sorry to hear about Bobby. I worked for my uncle in the TV shop next door to Doyle's Sports. Bobby always came in for soda after his run, or for lunch, he always had a smile on and had a nice thing to say. he will be missed.
Bill DeFusco
December 16, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
The Staff of Manning-Heffern Funeral Home
December 16, 2007
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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