Robert "Bob" C. Roach

Robert “Bob” Creighton Roach, 91, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 14th, 2024. He was born on August 27th, 1932, in Lafayette, Indiana, to Robert J. and Ada (Welday) Roach. He was a proud Delphi High School Oracle, graduating in 1950, where he was an exceptional athlete, president of his senior class, and a member of the “Stardusters” jazz band ensemble, playing often for classmates and friends.  Bob served in the United States Army as a corporal medic in the 2nd Infantry Division, receiving an honorable discharge in 1955. Bob later married the love of his life, Nancy Crook, on August 25, 1957, in Flora, Indiana, spending a dedicated and loving 66 years together. He graduated from Indiana University in 1958, with a Bachelor of Science and later taught Biology at Delphi High School. 

Bob's professional journey was defined by his tenure at Abbott Laboratories, where he served as a dedicated and successful pharmaceutical sales representative for 33 years. His work ethic left a lasting impact on those around him.  

Bob loved spending time with his family. He cherished every moment with his loved ones and was known for adoring them more than anything else in the world. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Outside of work and family, Bob found solace in a smooth jazz CD, sitting on the balcony on Singer Island overlooking the ocean, classic cars, a good cigar and a vodka martini.  His love for nature, traveling and working outdoors reflected his appreciation for life's simple pleasures.  Bob will be remembered him for his sense of humor and willingness to do anything for anybody. 

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Roach; children, Sharon (Bill) Marshall, Marcia (Jeff) Runde, and Cindy (Kurt) Smith; grandchildren, Holly (Raphael), Carly (Kyle), Claire (Zach), Peter (Natalie), Jocelyn and Rachel; great-grandchildren, Emmy, Piper, Kellan and Olivier; sister, Susan Mann-Hitchcock; several nieces, nephews, and many other family members and friends. 

Visitation for Bob will be from 1-3pm on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite) – 9700 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46250, with a funeral service immediately following at 3pm. Entombment with military honors will take place at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. 

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Jazz Studies Department Fund (205 S. Jordan Ave., Bloomington, IN 47405) or at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music