Robert B. Rice, "Bob" and "Bumpa", 76, of Worcester, MA passed away peacefully after a short illness on January 12, 2017 at UMass Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.
He is survived by his wife and best friend of 56 years, Jane (Delorey) Rice, his three children, Bonnie Thibeault and husband Robert of Spencer, Wendy Stanikmas and husband Kevin of Oakham, and Steven Rice and wife Gina of Worcester, seven grandchildren; Brian Thibeault and wife Jennifer, Michelle Thibeault, Jessica Field and fiancé Kenny Boisvert, Michael Case and wife Kim, Kimberly Doherty and husband John, Heather Greene and husband Michael, and Ashley Garduno and husband Rolando, two step grandchildren; John and Christina Licoski, eight great-grandchildren; Caliyah, Izabella, Katelyn, Johnathan, Joshua, Jordan, Riley, and Emelia, expecting the ninth great-grandchild in June, his sister Pamela Cox of South Orleans, brothers in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was born in East Saint Louis, IL son of the late Benjamin and Eleanor (Warner) Rice.
He graduated North High School in 1958 and attended Wentworth College. He worked for Heating and Oil Companies in the Ashland area and the Montachusett Girl Scout Council as a Camp Ranger. He and his wife owned and operated Rocky Brook Motel and Ice Cream Plus in Keene, NH. After retiring, Bob moved back to Worcester and worked part-time for Sams Club. He loved camping with extended family, fishing and spending time with his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He spent hours playing games on the computer and sitting with his dog, Sandie.
Visiting hours will be held Sunday, January 15th from 2:00-5:00pm in CALLAHAN FAY & CASWELL Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle St., Worcester. Burial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org or to the Second Chance Animal Shelter at www.secondchanceanimals.org.