Robert Barch

Obituary

In Loving Memory of Robert “Bob” Barch
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert “Bob” Barch, who peacefully passed away on September 16, 2026, at the age of 80.

To those who knew him well, he was simply “Bob.” A devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, loyal friend, and man of unwavering faith. To his immediate family, Bob was known as “The Blue-Eyed Superman.” It was a nickname earned through a lifetime of quiet heroism, unwavering strength, and selfless sacrifice. Bob leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, resilience, and kindness that will live on through all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Born on February 2, 1946, in Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania, Bob was the beloved son of Walter and Adeline Barch. He spent his life building meaningful relationships, creating cherished memories, and serving as the cornerstone of his family.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of more than 58 years, Joan Barch; his children, Renee Barch-Niles and Shawn Barch; his son-in-law, Cameron Niles; his daughter-in-law, Stephanie Miller-Barch; his cherished grandchildren, Joshua Caruthers, Bobby, and Dustin Barch; his sisters-in-law, Barbara Barch and Tawny Hyslop; his brothers-in-law, Tom Hyslop and Mark Hyslop; his nephews, Wally Barch, Wesley Hyslop, and Matthew Hyslop; his nieces, Kimberly Ayersman, Jackie Hyslop, and Michelle Hyslop; his cousin, Cheryl Yates; and many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Wally Barch, his daughter Tammy Barch, his son Bobby Barch Jr., and numerous beloved grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. We find comfort in knowing they welcomed him home with open arms and joyful hearts.

Throughout his life, Bob demonstrated extraordinary courage, grace, and determination. He faced challenges with remarkable strength and never lost sight of what mattered most to him: his family. Though his body grew tired, his spirit never did. Through every hardship, he taught those around him what true courage and perseverance look like and reminded all left behind that nothing is more important than taking care of family.

BLUE-EYED SUPERMAN. As a young man working in a steel mill, Bob risked his own life to save a coworker who was suffering a heart attack. During the rescue, a crane accident severely injured his back, crushing several discs in his spine and nearly leaving him paralyzed in his twenties. His courageous actions saved another man’s life. Following surgery and a long recovery, Bob went on to build a beautiful life with the love of his life, Joan. Together they raised four children through years that brought challenges and uncertainty, yet their home was always filled with love, kindness, laughter, and the reassurance that there would always be food on the table and a roof overhead.

What many viewed as a devastating setback became, in many ways, one of life’s unexpected gifts. Because he was home, Bob was present for countless moments that shaped his children’s lives. He taught them how to read and write, coached and encouraged them in sports, helped them become responsible Scouts, guided them through science projects, packed the car for family vacations, and stood behind every dream they dared to pursue. With a camera often in hand, he captured the memories that his family will treasure forever. More importantly, he gave his children something priceless: his time, his encouragement, and his belief in them.

BUILDING A BETTER LIFE. When times were difficult and work was scarce, Bob did whatever was necessary to provide for his family. Hunting was not merely a pastime or a way to spend time with his younger brothers-in-law he loved like a big brother; it helped put food on the table for his family.

Seeking greater opportunity for their children, Bob and Joan made the courageous decision to leave their hometown in Pennsylvania and move to Lakeland, Florida, in pursuit of a better life. Together, they started a cleaning business, working tirelessly to service office buildings, restaurants, clubs, and bars.

Through determination, perseverance, and an unwavering work ethic, they eventually purchased The Bullseye. With Bob’s natural gift for bringing people together, the business became more than a local establishment; it became a gathering place filled with friendships, dart tournaments, karaoke nights, costume parties, charitable events, celebrations, and countless memories.

After years of hard work and sacrifice, Bob and Joan achieved the American dream they had worked so diligently to build.

Later in life, Bob often shared with his children that during the hardest times, when he did not know how bills would be paid or where the next meal would come from, he would place his worries in God’s hands and trust that a path forward would appear. Time and time again, it did. Through these experiences, he taught his family a quiet, steadfast faith that no Sermon or Bible verse could ever fully convey.

THE ARTIST AND DREAMER. What many people may not have known was that Bob possessed a remarkable artistic talent. He loved painting, drawing and photography, as a young man, even attended art school with dreams of becoming a designer or interior decorator.

But life had other plans.

As a young father and the son of a steelworker, Bob chose responsibility over personal ambition and entered the steel mill, setting aside many of his artistic aspirations. Yet he never lost his ability to dream. Instead, he passed that gift on to his children.

He constantly reminded them that they could become anything they wanted to be if they were willing to work hard enough. He encouraged creativity, individuality, and optimism, while teaching lessons that would guide them throughout their lives.

One of his favorite pieces of advice was simple: “Keep your word. You only have one reputation in life.”

Through his example, Bob showed his children how to work hard, persevere through adversity, enjoy life’s blessings, and believe in possibilities others might consider unrealistic. He supported every dream with a smile, confidence, and unconditional love.

His wisdom, strength, humor, unwavering faith, steady presence, and selfless nature will remain with us forever. The lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he gave so freely will continue to guide all who knew and loved him.

While our hearts are broken by his passing, we are endlessly grateful for the years we were blessed to share with him. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the lives he touched, and the family he loved so deeply.

Dad, thank you for your love, your sacrifices, your strength, and your example. You taught us what it means to be resilient, faithful, compassionate, and kind. You showed us miracles happen when we believe. We will carry you with us always.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 20th, 2026 at

Shephard Road Presbyterian Church
1217 Shephard Rd, Lakeland, FL 33811
Tuesday, October 20th – 11:00 AM Service & 12:00 PM Reception

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and honor of a life that was truly well-lived, deeply loved, and profoundly meaningful.

“A father’s love is forever imprinted on the hearts of his children.”

Bob will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts. Forever our Blue-Eyed Superman.