Obituary of Robert T. Walsh

Robert T. Walsh, age 77, of Duxbury died on May 11, 2018

Bob was a protector for his family, as well as animals. He was a patient and kind horseman. He built such a level of trust that previously dangerous horses would do anything he asked.

He could often be seen riding Equis Society Spirit, his favorite horse, in Duxbury forests, to the bank drive-up window or to FarFars for ice cream.

A sports and spot news photographer for the Boston Globe while in high school, Bob often arrived at burning buildings before the firefighters. At least 18 people survived because he rushed through the flames to save them. Once, he had to outrun the flames and jump from a second story to a firefighters’ net.

As a commercial photographer, he climbed out onto the open girders of the Prudential Center weekly to records its progress. For aerial photography, he asked the pilots to fly the helicopter on its side and he would hang out the open door taking photos.

In his early 20’s, he was called by police departments and insurance companies to photograph crimes and accidents and was a forensic witness in court.

After a career in photography, he moved to law enforcement for the railroad, eventually retiring from CSX from as a lieutenant. He was responsible for all of New England and most of New York State; however, his jurisdiction was every state with railroad tracks. One of his cases was adjudicated up to the Supreme Court. He was the railroad’s prosecuting officer in Massachusetts.

As bold and larger-than-life as he was, Bob was caring husband of almost 50 years of Myrna (Chaison), Bob was devoted to his children, Jessica and her sons Aidan and Chais, and to Michael and his wife Renee and son Nathan. He was big brother to sisters Patricia Ann Locarni of Falmouth , and Arlene Wells of Asheville, N. C. His loving family also includes Dr. Gary and Joanne Chaison of Worcester. He is survived by 11 nieces and nephews.

Bob was born in Quincy, MA, to Hester (Biggin) and Martin Walsh. He graduated from Northeastern University.

Burial will be private. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date in June.

Donations in his memory would be appreciated to Hospice of the South Shore 30 Reservoir Park Dr, Rockland, MA 02370or the Animal Rescue Facility of your choice.