Robert Church, 54, of Paradise Valley, Arizona, passed away on February 20, 2020. He was a wonderful son, husband and father, and he leaves behind many family members and friends
who loved him very much. He is survived by his father, Lawrence Robert Church, his father’s wife Michelle Church, and his brother Jeffrey Church. He also leaves behind his wife of almost twenty-seven years, Jennifer Church, and his children John Robert Church (age 21), James Lawrence Church (age 18), and Riley Ann Church (age 14).
If you had asked Robert at any time during the last two decades what his most important achievements were, he would have unequivocally answered that his children were his greatest accomplishments. Rob’s children were everything to him. John, James and Riley had the gift of having Robert as a dad. They will always remember him as a loving and great force in their lives. Robert has moved on, but his heart continues to live through his children.
Rob lived in California throughout most of his childhood. He attended Sonora High School for his freshman year. In the winter of 1981, he moved to Corona Del Mar, where he attended Corona Del Mar High School from 1981-1983.
Robert attended college at Arizona State University, where he was a proud member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He graduated in 1988 with a BS degree in international business.
Rob was a past two-term chairman of the board at Esperanca, and a life member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Phoenix Executive Council.
Robert was a wealth manager, financial advisor, and corporate executive services professional. He started his financial career in 1993, and he worked with several firms throughout the years. Robert was most recently affiliated with First Financial Equity Corporation, where he focused his efforts on managing wealth for a select group of families who were not only clients to Rob, but friends as well.
Rob was kind and generous with his time. He was a mentor and friend to many throughout his career. He enjoyed traveling and cooking. He was happiest cooking a big dinner for family and friends. He could be found on any given night hitting tennis balls in the backyard for his dog Max, while Pickles the lazy beagle waited to sit in his lap.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Rob’s honor on Saturday, March 14, 2020 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Arizona Country Club, 5668 East Orange Blossom Lane, Phoenix.
Flower donations can be sent directly to the Arizona Country Club on March 14, 2020 or contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to the Robert C. Church Memorial Fund
(#151704505362) at any U.S. Bank branch.
Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
Colleen Anasis
I am deeply sadden to hear of Rob ‘s passing. Growing up he was like a little brother. He was one of my brother’s best friends. We practically lived in the Church’ s pool in the summers, he was a killer Marco Polo player. Hugs and prayers to Larry, Michelle, Jeff, Jennifer and kids.❤️
Kathleen Biers
Jennifer and family — please know that we are thinking of you and do offer our condolences to your entire family.
We have made a contribution to your account in Rob’s memory.
The Biers Family (Kathy, Bill, Suzanne and Timothy)
James H Baumann
To Rob’s family, I just learned of Rob‘s passing from Stacy Olson two days ago. Rob was in my pledge class at PiKappa Alpha. I’m sorry I missed his memorial. I saw Rob recently at the Arizona Country Club and our friendship was instantly renewed. My prayers go out to his family. I loved Rob and realize in reading his obituary how much we had in common. I played tennis at Arizona State and I am also a financial advisor. May you rely on the love of God the father the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship with Holy Spirit as you grieve. Sincerely James Baumann certified financial planner.
Monica Hopkins (Stahlschmidt)
To say that I was completely shocked and devastated for the Church Family is an understatement. I’m still in disbelief and pray for you all everyday. I did not see this obituary until this morning.
It gave me comfort to attend the service in March before the COVID19 pandemic could take hold in our state. I am so sorry that Wyatt and Charlie were not in town to attend.
Robert was a tireless friend to all, an outstanding cook, loving husband to you, Jennifer, and most importantly an amazing father to your greatest blessings; John, James and Riley.
You and Robert have been such supportive friends to me and my boys, but especially during the divorce when I needed it the most.
I will always remember us being young mothers in NCPG and Robert and Jeff cooking elaborate four course meals for our book group in your home.
Please know that Wyatt, Charlie and I would have loved to give him a hug and say how very highly we regarded him and to stay amongst the living for a bit longer.
Now that Christmas is upon us all, I know your grief is exemplified. Please know we are all here for you, will continue to be here for you, pray for you and love you all dearly.
Our deepest sympathies
raul espericueta
I am so deeply saddened to learn about Robert’s passing at this time. Jennifer, please know that it’s because of Robert and his leadership that Esperanca is what it is today. I could not have done what I did without his support and enthusiasm for our mission. You and your children will be in my prayers. Raul Espericueta, former CEO of Esperanca