Robert J. “Bob" Hoder passed away Monday, Sept. 17, 2018, at his home in  Barrington. He was married to Janet (Huddlestone) Hoder of Yorkshire, England for 51 years, and was the father of Mark Hoder (Sue) of Barrington, Veronica Gazeryan (Arman) of Barrington, and Kate Hoder of New York City. He was the beloved grandfather of Leah, Lusine, Jack, Brett, Brenen, Griffin and Lillie.

The son of Marie (Cahill) and Frank Joseph Hoder, Bob was born in Philadelphia, Pa. He attended high school in Grosse Point, Mich., Arlington Heights, Ill., and Barrington High School, where he graduated in 1958, and remained close to friends from all three schools. He and Janet hosted the 60th BHS reunion at their home in July. Bob graduated from URI in 1962 with a BS in agriculture. He was a proud member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He was a walk-on for the URI football team his freshman year, and eventually became its captain. Inducted into the URI Athletic Hall of Fame in 1994, Bob was an ardent supporter of the school.

Following university, he played with the Providence Steamroller semi-professional football team, taking part in the longest football game in semi-pro history.  

Bob was a founder and captain of the Providence Rugby Club and co-founder of the Barrington Rugby Club, leaving an indelible impact on his teammates and students. He was founder and president of Rugby Imports in East Providence, providing jerseys and uniforms to rugby teams throughout the United States. 

An avid gardener, Bob was known for his spectacular roses. He leaves a loving family, including three brothers: Thomas Hoder (Caron) of Taunton, Mass., Frank “Jay” (Nance) Hoder of Vero Beach, Fla., and John (Susanne) Hoder of Punta Gorda, Fla.

A celebration of his life will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. in the Newman Congregational Church, 100 Newman Ave., Rumford, RI.

Calling hours will be held Friday, Sept. 21, 2018 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Smith Funeral and Memorial Services, 8 Schoolhouse Road, Warren, RI.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

www.wjsmithfh.com