Though he was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, Bob spent most of his life in Sanford, Maine.
Bob was a professional and accomplished musician (drummer), watercolor artist, chef, small aircraft pilot, motorcycle enthusiast, nature lover, and kite flyer. For many years he enjoyed delivering the Journal Tribune six days a week to his regular route and running the AV equipment for Sanford’s Town Council meetings. He was well known and well loved.
In 1950 Bob enlisted in the Navy and served in the Korean War. He couldn’t believe his luck when they recognized his musical skills and sent him to the Navy School of Music. He played in the Navy Band aboard various aircraft carriers and played music all over the world. When he returned home to Sanford, he continued to play the drums professionally and for several years, owned a music store, the Melody Shop, on Winter Street.
He discovered his ability to paint later in life. He was about 55 years old when his wife, gave him a set of paints and said, “Bob you need a hobby.” From that moment – he was in love with watercolors and painted hundreds of beautiful landscapes and landmarks around Maine.
Bob married Barbara Murphy in 1952 and together they had five children, Michelle, Paul, Jim, Pete and Lorraine. In 1969, he married Diane Hollowell and together they raised Michael and Stephen.
He also has eight grandchildren, Robert, Jaclyn, Stuart, Cilla, Kate, Kara, Janis and Jonathan, and 4 great-grandchildren: Dexter, Dani, Thomas, and Zeke.
Bob loved people and enjoyed life. During the last few years, he often said “I’ve done everything in life I ever wanted to do. How many men can say that?” We will miss him.
Services: private
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