AUBURN-ROBERT E. TOWNE, JR.-Bob was born in Somerville, MA to Robert E. Sr., and Arline Cook. He grew up in Petersham, MA and entered the Army after graduating from Petersham High School. Bob served his country in WWII at the Battle of the Bulge.
After leaving the service he met the love of his life Jean Shea while bowling and went on to enjoy 64 years of marriage raising 4 children.
Bob was ever the salesman’s salesman loving to interact and serve his clients. His only complaint might be to sell out of promotional items. He began his career with Hood milk selling door to door then continued on as the consummate salesman selling insurance, La Touraine Coffee and Consolidated Tobacco. Bob was the first to sell Spag cigar products closing the deal with Spag at the kitchen table in Spag’s house.
Bob and Jean owned and operated Chicken Delight on Pleasant St. in Worcester for over 12 years. They also had a love for antiquing operating the Towne Crier collectables along with the restaurant business.
Bob was nearly 60 when he began his automotive career beginning with C&T Auto Parts, Bumper to Bumper and finally with Fisher Auto Parts until his passing.
Bob and Jean’s favorite vacations were always car trips to their favorite destination to the State of Maine. Many of these trips included bringing many of their grandchildren along.
Bob was truly a member of the greatest generation serving his country, working hard, fathering a fine family and a very proud, gentle man.
Bob joins his wife of 64 years in heaven and leaves his children Robert E. Towne III and wife Gail, Michael Towne and wife Christina, Patricia DiReda and Debra Towne with whom he lived, his “fifth” child and Sister In-Law Karen Shea, whom he said was always there for him and to make him laugh.
Bob the Grandfather proudly leaves Christopher Robert Towne, Matthew Towne, Derek Towne, Michelle King, Adam Towne, Erin Towne, Rebecca McBreen, Nicholas DiReda, Alexandra DiReda and Isabella DiReda.
Bob the Great-Grandfather proudly leaves Jarrett Towne, Kaitlin Towne, Isabella Towne, Katie Towne, Abigail Towne, Hayden Towne, Emily Towne, Shea McBreen, Bridget Towne, John McBreen III, Olivia King and 3 week old Thomas Robert McBreen, who Great-Grampy got to hold.
Bob’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to his family at Fisher Auto Parts in Spencer, MA including his managers Peg and Steve and the rest of their team for their incredible support, respect and love for Bob. Also to Dr. Kustari and Dr. Kim of UMass and the staff for their respect to treat his cancer with a plan to maintain his quality of life. During his final days, we are eternally grateful to the Hospice team of Notre Dame for providing comfort and care.
A Funeral will be held Tuesday, August 16, from CALLAHAN~FAY~CASWELL Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle Street with a Mass at 10AM in St. Peter's Church, 931 Main St., Worcester. Burial will be in West Sutton Cemetery. Visiting Hours are Monday, August 15 from 4 to 7PM at the funeral home. Bob and his family would like to request donations be made to St Peter’s/St Andrew’s Church of Worcester in lieu of flowers.