HOWELL – He was described as living life on his own terms – and former mayor and councilman Robert “Bob” F. Walsh is being remembered well. He died on Jan. 23 at age 61.
Last May he was honored for his years of service to Howell Township during a special ceremony where his street sign was unveiled.
While public officials often get their fair share of grief and criticism from residents his fellow political colleagues were happy to see him receive such recognition that day.
Robert F. Walsh Way is a street that loops around the municipal building at 4567 Route 9 in Howell.
Walsh was a Manalapan native, but lived in Howell for more than 25 years, serving on the town council for over a decade. He began his civil service in November 2005 when he was elected to a seat on the council. He later served his time as mayor from 2009 to 2012. Walsh then served as councilman again until the November 2018 election, in which he did not seek re-election.
Walsh’s longtime colleagues spoke well of him.
Deputy Mayor Evelyn O’Donnell said during the dedication of his street that Walsh possessed great generosity, dedication, and leadership. “There are sometimes a few people who make a lasting impression on a district, a township, a community. The man who stands before you today is one of those people,” O’Donnell said then.
Upon hearing the news of his passing, O’Donnell said, “the death of former Mayor Bob Walsh is sad indeed. Bob lived his life full and with conviction. His tenure as mayor met with many difficulties, yet he continued on the path that he felt would best serve Howell. Decisions were made with much thought and I’m sure some trepidation.”
She added, “through the years his family was kind enough to share him with Howell Township residents and for that I am grateful. I hope the residents of Howell continue their prayers and support for his family in the coming weeks and months ahead.”
“Today is a very sad day for Howell Township. Bobby’s legacy transcends way beyond politics,” Howell Republican Chairman Juan Malave said. “His selfless dedication to his family, friends and community makes him an extraordinary human being. He has touched and directly impacted so many lives, whether it was through his many years of helping Santa as his little elf, helping and contributing to many sports organizations or the many lives he saved by providing assistance and support to youngsters suffering from addictions – not to mention the many years he served as Howell Township Mayor and Councilman.
“Bobby always gave his best without asking for anything in return. He didn’t do it for recognition, he just wanted to see his community flourish. This man had a heart of gold. Even those who may have politically disagree with him respected him and his motives were never questioned, his motives were always pure in his desire to help his community. After all, as he used to say, he is a Monmouth County Boy,” Malave added.
“He was an exemplary public servant and will be missed by many, we will forever be indebted for his contributions and many years of service to our community. He was simply a giant, gentle bear. Fly high my friend,” Malave said.
Councilwoman Pamela Richmond said, “I was heartbroken to learn of the passing of former Mayor Bob Walsh. Bob was a dear friend and mentor and it was an honor for me to have been his running-mate.
“Bob was a tremendous leader and he achieved some historic things for the township that will benefit Howell for generations to come. He had a heart of gold and he really loved the township. It’s a sad day for Howell; he will be sorely missed. I offer my condolences to Bob’s wife Michele and his children. I will miss him dearly. Rest In Peace Papa Bear,” Richmond said.
“Remembering and honoring the life of my friend, running mate and former mayor/councilman, Bobby Walsh. He was a big man with an even bigger heart. A dedicated public servant and family man. An advocate who told you like it was. A fighter. A friend. A true original in every sense of the word,” Councilman Thomas Russo said.
Russo added, “thank you for everything Bobby. Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.” Russo posted on his Facebook page a reminder. “Please continue to keep the Walsh family in your thoughts and prayers.”
