Robert Rawcliffe passed away peacefully on Friday May 3, 2019, with his family by his side. “Bob” (also known as Uncle Bob and Grandpa), was born in New Bedford on March 18, 1939, and lived most of his life in the South End, in the home his great-grandfather built in 1899. Bob enlisted in the Army in 1962 and served his country proudly, for four years. After the military he met the love of his life, Phyllis (Soares). They celebrated 54 years of marriage last September 7th, and built a loving life and family together.
Bob’s work ethic was undeniably strong: he spent many hours working on his home, in his woodshop and tending to life with grit and determination, always while whistling a tune. Bob was a die-hard New England sports fan, and if Bob was around, there was a game on. He was quick with a joke, and tender hearted. Bob and Phyllis enjoyed traveling throughout their marriage, most especially cruising, and loved the adventure each new experience brought to life.
Bob loved traditions and holidays and adored spending time with his two granddaughters, Julia and Rosie. Sneaking them donuts, dollar bills and sharing his love of Disney with them, kept their bond strong. Bob was a faithful husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He was fiercely loyal, and lived his life built on values of hard work, determination and integrity. He passed these values on to his family, and his work ethic will live on, through the generations.
Bob is survived by his wife Phyllis, son Jason, daughter-in-law Renee, grandchildren Julia and Rose, godchild Skyla Hudson, and many extended relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Rhoda and Thomas, brother Leonard, sisters Betty Rymszewicz and Dorothy, and daughter Heather.
The family would like to offer their sincere thanks and gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, who provided such dedicated and compassionate care to Bob.
His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday May 9th at 10 AM at St. Julie Billiart in Dartmouth. Burial follow in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Wednesday May 8th from 5-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.