Robert Sheehan

Robert "Bobby" Sheehan, former professional hockey player, affectionately known to all as Bobby and to some as "cat" or "shecat", passed away peacefully on November 7, 2026 at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family. Bobby was born in Weymouth to the late Thomas Sheehan and Sybil MacMurray Sheehan. He was known throughout his life for his quick wit, sharp mind, and immediate sense of humor, Bobby was a man who made friends wherever he went and could always be counted on for a joke and a smile.

Growing up in Weymouth, Bobby's lifelong love for hockey began on local rinks and frozen ponds. His talent and determination eventually took him to Canada to play junior hockey. He was immensely proud of his Halifax junior team, which was inducted into the Maritime Sport Hall of Fame in 2024.

Bobby went on to play professional hockey for 13 seasons. As one of only a handful of American-born players in the NHL during his early years, he was a true trailblazer for American hockey. Known for his blistering speed and dynamic skating ability, he won the Stanley Cup with the Montreal Canadiens in 1971 and had a great post-season run with the New York Rangers in 1979. Over Bobby's career he also played for the California Golden Seals, Chicago Black Hawks, Detroit Red Wings, Colorado Rockies, and Los Angeles Kings. He had a successful career in the WHA with such teams as the New York Raiders and Edmonton and was a fan favorite.

Following his professional hockey career, Bobby returned to his roots and found immense joy in giving back to the community he loved. He spent countless hours teaching youth hockey to youngsters around his hometown of Weymouth, passing along his signature speed, skill, and deep love for the game to the next generation of skaters.

In addition to his coaching, Bobby dedicated over 30 years of service to the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission, from which he recently retired. He thoroughly enjoyed his time as a charitable gaming field representative, traveling across the state to many Bingo games, making lasting friendships at every stop.

Above all, Bobby loved his children and cherished every moment spent with them and his grandchildren. He was a deeply generous soul who believed in giving back; every holiday season, he could be counted on to stop by the Pine Street Inn with a donation to help those in need. Bobby particularly loved his regular trips back to Canada to visit and stay connected with the family and friends he held so dear.

He is survived by his 5 children: Bobby Sheehan Jr. of Weymouth; Hope (Sheehan) Plack and her husband Lance Plack of Falmouth; Jill (Sheehan) Saulnier and her husband Marc Saulnier of Medfield; Kayla Sheehan and her fiancé Gavin Keif of Falmouth; Chris Peterson of Woodland Hills, CA; and his grandchildren, Jane and Jack Saulnier. He is also survived by his brother David Sheehan of Weymouth, his sister Lynn Wagner of Halifax, Nova Scotia, his cherished companion Carol Ridlon of Hingham, and a wide circle of friends and family who will miss him dearly. He was predeceased by his 2 brothers, Thomas Sheehan III of Weymouth and Kevin Sheehan, whose wife Cathy currently resides in San Diego.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to the Funeral Mass for Bobby on Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 11:30am in the Immaculate Conception Church located at 720 Broad St. E. Weymouth, MA 02189. Burial will follow in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Weymouth.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society, the Pine Street Inn, or a charity of your choice.