Richard F Tobin

Richard F. Tobin was born in Boston, Massachusetts on April 7, 1931, the son of Mary and Aloysius Tobin, and the older brother of Joseph. He enjoyed growing up in Belmont, Massachusetts in the company of his cousins and neighborhood friends. He was an athlete and dedicated student.

After graduating from Boston College with a bachelor’s degree, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Nome, Alaska, which had not yet become the 49th U.S. state. Following his service, he began a successful career as a sales engineer with GTE Sylvania, an affiliation that would span 40 years until his retirement.

In 1957 he married his soulmate, Ann Roberts, and settled in Needham, Massachusetts. This love story would last 68 wonderful years. Daughters Helen and Sarah were born in Needham before the family relocated to Florham Park, New Jersey. Sons Richard and Joseph followed, and the family quickly became involved in the community. Dick was an active participant at Holy Family Parish and School, coached football, and shared his New England roots through the formation of the Florham Park Ice Hockey Association, where he coached young skaters for many years.

Education was important to Dick, and he enjoyed researching colleges and universities to find the best fit for the interests and talents of his children, grandchildren, and family friends. Visiting a college campus was a good reason for a quick detour on any family trip.

Dick valued his many friends, was a devoted alumnus of Boston College, and was an avid golfer and sports fan. Some of his fondest memories were summer vacations on Lake Wentworth in New Hampshire and traveling through Europe with the “Holy Family Pilgrims,” led by Monsignor Kupke. After retiring, he and Ann returned to New England and built a home on Cape Cod, where they made memories with family and friends old and new. Dick prided himself on being the oldest skater at the ice rink, avidly read books on historical topics, developed an interest in boating, and was a faithful communicant at St. Joan of Arc Church.

His last few years were spent at Fellowship Village, Basking Ridge, where he and Ann moved part time to be closer to family. Their wonderful new friends and caring staff are truly special. Dick is survived by his wife, Ann. His legacy of four children includes: Helen Moore and husband John; Sarah Spengler and husband Stephen; Rich Tobin and wife Lisa; Joseph Tobin and wife Diane. His eight grandchildren are Gregory, Carleigh O’Brien (Sean) and Jeffrey Moore; Brittany and Tatiana Spengler; John and Sarah Tobin; and Patrick Tobin. His great grandchild is Sebastian O’Brien. He is predeceased by his dear brother, Joseph, and wife Zella. He is also survived by his niece, Kate Tobin, and many close family members.

Dick celebrated his 94th birthday this month, surrounded by the love of his wife and children. He accomplished his goal of a life well lived.

The funeral mass will be held at Holy Family Church in Florham Park on Wednesday, April 16th at 10am, followed by a repast. 

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