Bob Tholl

Robert C. ‘Bob’ Tholl, Sr., 80, passed away on Saturday, August 31, 2024. He was born on March 16, 1944 in La Jolla, CA, to Peter G. Tholl, Sr. and Frances Ida Tholl. He was one of three children, his sister Joyce Cleary and brother Peter G. Tholl, Jr. predeceased him. Bob spent most of his life in Southern California, growing up in Del Mar and graduating from San Dieguito High School in 1962. Upon graduating, Bob attended Palomar College while also working in the family business, Tholl & Sons Construction. He then established his own General Contracting business, building custom homes in Del Mar, Encinitas, and throughout San Diego County.

For years, Bob was known as Coach Tholl, providing sports and life lessons to the youth in his area as a baseball, football and soccer coach, and Little League umpire. Often, when he wasn’t working or coaching, he could be found at the beach surf fishing with his custom made rod, next to a campfire with many onlookers, casting far beyond the breakers. Bob is remembered fondly by many, as a surrogate Father figure, for opening his home and his heart.

When he retired in 2009, Bob moved to Grand Rapids, MI to be closer to his children and grandchildren. His greatest pleasure was attending and following his grandsons’ lacrosse and hockey games, from the youth level to the NCAA. Bob loved animals, especially dogs. Always by his side, his Paws With a Cause black Labrador Marlowe was his most recent companion.

Bob is survived by his son Robert C. Tholl, Jr. (Molly Metcalf), daughter Kristine O’Connell (Brian), his former wife Sheila Tholl; three loving grandsons, Robert C. ‘Tripp’ Tholl, III, Samuel M. Tholl, and Finley W. ‘Finn’ O’Connell; and numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and multiple grand paws.

The family held a private service to honor his memory and share stories of the character of a great man.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Paws With a Cause,4646 S. Division Ave., Wayland MI 49348.

Riposi in Pace / May he rest in peace.

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