MANCHESTER, NH January 23, 2026–Former at-Large school board member and alderman Rich Girard issued a statement after learning of the passing of former Manchester Mayor Bob Baines, who was serving as the school board member from Ward 9 at the time of his death. Girard, who ran against Baines for mayor in 2001, was also a student at Manchester High School West, during Baines’ tenure as principal.
I was surprised and saddened to learn of Bob’s passing. While he and I rarely agreed on how to handle the various and many challenges facing our city, especially its schools, I also rarely questioned whether he thought he was doing the right thing and always believed he loved our city. I was always happy to host him on my radio show, especially while promoting the Blarney Breakfast. His passing is a loss for our community.
To his wife Maureen, son Tim, daughters Christina and Catherine, his grandchildren, his brother Al and the entire Baines family, I offer my sincere condolences and prayers for the repose of his soul and that your family might be strengthened by the promise of eternal life for those faithful to the Lord. May he rest in peace and may you be comforted strengthened by the many memories.
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