US Marine veteran who enjoyed tennis and travel
On September 16, Robert Lawrence Tryder, passed away peacefully at the Bedford VA Hospital, where he received compassionate care with his family always by his side. He was a well-loved man and devoted to his family. Bob was 85 years old and raised at 37 Washington St. in Charlestown by his cherished Aunt Kay, Uncle Bob, Nana Kelly and many cousins. He spent many days at the Charlestown Boys Club perfecting his game. He wore his Townie pride like a badge of honor and the annual Bunker Hill Day Parade was a non-negotiable event on his calendar each June 17.
When Bob met his wife Carol, he was smitten, it was love at first sight. Their journey began at Camp Pendleton, CA where Bob served as a proud United States Marine, a role he held in the highest regard. Together they moved to Melrose where they raised their three children: Joy, Jill and Tod. He was a dedicated employee of the Boston Gas Company. Upon his retirement, he frequently filled in as a doorman at Gately Funeral Home, relishing the opportunity to dress up, smell good and giving reason to shining his shoes. His love for sports and coaching Babe Ruth and American Legion led him to bringing home a championship trophy to the city. In his leisure time, Bob enjoyed playing tennis with the guys at the Crystal Street tennis courts and taking trips to Big Sur, Arizona, New Mexico and Chatham alongside his wife.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife Carol of 65 years and their children: Joy and William Hirschfeld; Jill and John Brussard; and Tod and Jill Tryder. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: Andrew (Billy), Leslie (John), Ali (Matt), Jake (Shannon), Maggie and Cal. His great grandchildren: Gio, Lizzie, Isla, Callum, Jack and Charlie. He also left behind his good childhood friend Nippy Nolan.
A memorial mass to celebrate Bob’s life will be held on Thursday, October 5 at 10 a.m. at the Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield, MA. The family warmly welcomes relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Robert L. Tryder may be made to the David James Hospice Unit at Bedford VA Hospital, 200 Springs Rd., Unit 2C, Bedford, MA 01730. To sign online condolence, visit www.gatelyfh.com.
Semper Fi Dad
