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October 24, 20171930 - 2017
Robert Garand
Loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend, Robert Norris Garand (Bob) of Tucson, Arizona, formerly of Tinley Park, Illinois and Toledo, Ohio, age 87, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2017 in his home after an extended illness.
Bob was born May 2, 1930 in Toledo, Ohio to Frederick Garand and Mary Jambor. He is survived by beloved wife Alice; and his 8 children; Rob (Barb), Teri, Mick (Julie), Mary, John (Sue), Jim/Bert (Susie), Chris (Val) and Carol, 19 grandchildren; Rory, Alicia, Emmy, Gina, Colin, Duncan, Cassidy, Chase, Marc, Mike, Matt, Molly, Megan, Mackenzie, Maggie, Rylee, Jimmy, Michael and Adam, 1 great grandchild; Erin, his younger brother John Garand and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death
by his parents and brothers; Fr. Frederick Garand and Richard Garand.
He proudly served his country as an Army veteran of the Korean War and was a past Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus. He worked as an electrician but was truly a jack of all trades and could fix almost anything!
Bob loved to celebrate life with his large extended family. With so many children, the causes of celebration were plentiful; whether it be church, school, or sports-related. Just about any occasion was a reason to party. He taught us all not to take life so seriously, but rather enjoy the moment. His most
familiar look was a crazy hat of some sort on his head, a cigar in his mouth and a scotch in his hand!
He was truly larger than life! He loved people and people loved him.
He had an open door policy, welcoming one and all! Especially for Sunday night dinners. He had a great love for cooking and enjoyed treating the masses to his many signature one-pot meals, such as Paprikash, Pigs in the Blanket and Chili. He also enjoyed shooting, painting and music. At family gatherings, he was always encouraged to lead in song, and would enthusiastically belt out such favorites as “Viola”, "Mr. Dunderbach" or many others, while pounding out the beat on his upturned giant soup pot. He was a legend that brought life to any party!
Bob fancied himself to be a true Irishman and loved all things Irish! The older half of the family will never forget their three week trip to Ireland, his collection of Irish music and the fact that he never missed flying the Irish flag on St. Patricks Day.
He was definitely one of a kind, one of the great ones, and will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love him.
A funeral Mass and celebration of life will be held at St. Mark Catholic Church, 2727 W. Tangerine Rd, Oro Valley, AZ on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. Funeral arrangements are through Vistoso Funeral Home (520) 544-2285. Private interment.
