Robert Riley DesROCHES

1933 - 2021

Robert Riley DesRoches, born November 1, 1933 passed away on December 26, 2020 at the age of 87. He served 22 years as an Air Force radar navigator, and in his second career as a structure claims adjuster for Safeco. Bob, as he was known by all, volunteered for Habitat for Humanity blitz-builds, and for the Corbin Senior Center for 18 years as a receptionist. One of the most important parts of Bob's life was in service to the Fairchild Air Force Base Catholic chapel. He served as a Eucharistic Minister, a lector, parish council president, a presenter for Marriage Encounter retreats, and would take communion to home-bound people who could not get to mass. Bob and his wife were also foster parents for 10 children. In addition to being a foster parent Bob welcomed any and all to his home, especially young people, and dozens of people beyond his family came to refer to Bob as "dad". He was "rent-a-dad" at sporting, music and social events, never missing a game, a concert, a school dance or graduation. All the kids were "his kids". The dinner table always had room for more, and Bob and his wife were often the hosts of many celebrations and holiday gatherings. Bob truly lived his life with a complete spirit of generosity and selflessness. He was deeply loved and is missed everyday by all who knew him. Bob is survived by his wife Marian of 57 years, his children Robert DesRoches Jr. (Gina), Kimberly DesRoches (Robert Talbert), Laura DiBartolo (Tony), and Jody Graves (Fred Manhart). He is also survived by sixteen grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Our world was so blessed and richer for having had Bob/Dad/Grampy in our lives.

A memorial mass will be offered on Friday, July 16 at 10am at the Ball and Dodd Funeral Home in Spokane on West Wellesley, and all are welcome to attend. A BBQ reception will be held from 2-5pm at Clear Lake Homeowners, 13730 S Finney St, Medical Lake, WA 99022 on Clear Lake and everyone is welcome to come and celebrate Bob's life with music, food and stories. If attending the reception please wear casual clothes, bring a lawn chair and we respectfully request an rsvp to Kim at: kim.desroches@wnc.edu. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Habitat for Humanity or the Corbin Senior Center.