Bob Driscoll
BY THOMAS GRILLO
PEABODY — Bob Driscoll brought out the best in people.
Over his long career as a coach and nearly 30 years on the Peabody City Council, Driscoll had legions of supporters who were inspired by his hard work, fairness and sense of humor.
Driscoll passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 24, doing what he loved — playing hockey.
Dozens of people took to social media this week to remember Driscoll, the 69-year-old Peabody resident who was well-known for his work as a teacher, a coach and a public servant. As a Ward 4 councilor, constituents said he worked tirelessly to improve the city on behalf of its residents.
“In the short time I have served on the Peabody City Council, it didn’t take me long to figure out that Bob Driscoll was one of the good guys,” wrote Joel Saslaw, Ward 5 councilor in Peabody, on Facebook. “As he was the council president … he always had my back whether it be a kind suggestion or a needed recess. Bob also told me stick with the neighbors. I will miss him.”
Kevin Doyle posted on Facebook that he was saddened to learn of the untimely passing of Masconomet’s Hall of Fame hockey coach and long-time city councilor.
“The first hockey game I covered as sports editor of The Daily News in Newburyport was an early-season 1978-79 match between Newburyport and Masco at the old barn on Boston Street in Lynn,” he wrote. “I don’t recall the score, but I do remember Bob and I hit it off immediately and maintained a great working relationship for the next 25 seasons until he retired. Always looked forward to our post-game chats.”
Lou Spagnola wrote that “Whether you had them for classes or sports, both Driscoll brothers were the kind of teachers who made Northeast the great and fun school it was when I went there between 1982-86. My condolences to his family and friends … RIP, Bob.”
Christine DeSimone had a simple message: that Driscoll was one of her favorite teachers.
Someone named Winter Moon wrote “I love you Bob Driscoll, and I thank you for your generosity and kindness.”
Mayor Edward Bettencourt summed it up for everyone when he said the city has lost a public servant and a true gentleman.
“I am privileged to have known Bob as a friend, colleague and mentor during the years we served together on the City Council,” he said in a statement. “As a councilor, Bob was a tremendous advocate not only for his Ward 4 constituents but for residents throughout his beloved hometown of Peabody. On behalf of a grateful City, I offer my deepest sympathies to Bob’s wife Sally and to all of their children and grandchildren.”