LEICESTER: Robert L. Higgins, 89, died peacefully at his home on Thursday, Oct. 4th.
He leaves his wife of 64 years, Sonja F. (Kranich) Higgins, his daughter Audrey S. Roberts and her husband Charles of Spencer, two grandchildren Jefferey P. LeBlanc II of Spencer, and Jennifer A. Carlson and her husband Kevin of Leicester, five great grandchildren Kelsei, Kelijiah, Damon, Haley and Faye. He is predeceased by a son Duane Higgins in 2001, and a sister Dorothy Mondor.
Bob was a machinist at Norton Co. in Worcester from 1979-91 before retiring. He was born in Worcester, the son of Lester P. and Pearl (Pettis) Higgins, and later served his country with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Germany and Holland where during the flood of 1953 he was a photographer with the 497 Signal Photo Company. He was a member of the Cherry Valley American Legion Post 443. Bob was an avid sportsman and hunter, and belonged to many Sportsman's Clubs to include the Leicester Rod & Gun Club, Singletary in Oxford, and the Spencer Fish & Game Club. He played guitar and sang with his band "Bob Higgins and the J 3's" for many years. He also held a private pilots license for many years.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 9 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 1131 Main St., Leicester with a prayer service at the conclusion at 6 p.m. Burial with Military Honors in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton will be on Tuesday, Oct. 16 at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either Jewish Home Care, 646 Salisbury St., Worcester 01609 or Second Chance Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 136, E.Brookfield, MA 01515.