Purple Heart Recipient

PHS Class of 1943

At the age of eight Robert Finch's family moved to a farm west of Payson. While he was a student at Payson High School, he participated in football, track & field, and the school operas, graduating in 1943. After graduation, Robert was drafted into the United States Army. He served valiantly in World War II where he was severely wounded in battle and almost lost his life. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his service.

Robert, also known as Bob, owned a farm in West Mountain and had a long and successful career as a custodian and bus driver for Nebo School District. All who knew him and worked with him were blessed by his friendship and music. Bob and his brothers also served our community through song. The Finch brothers sang at countless funerals, weddings, and other community events. (Bob's brother Vernon Finch is also a PHS Distinguished Alumnus.) Bob loved sports of all kinds, and was a BYU Cougar fan through and through. He loved fishing, camping, hunting, and spending time with his family.

In some respects, it can be said that Bob led a simple life, if by "simple" one means without great fanfare or wide-scale public attention. But in a truer, deeper sense, his life and contributions to his community were profoundly heroic. When his country called on him, he served faithfully and valiantly. He spent his life in quiet service to those around him. And though he may never be well-known beyond our community, PHS is proud to call him one of our sons.

Inducted 1992