1932 - 2025
Bob was the last living of nine children and lived a life defined by dedication, service, and deep devotion to family. He proudly served three years in the Navy Reserves, followed by four years of active duty in the United States Air Force. His professional career reflected that same commitment. He spent 10 years with Hughes Aircraft Company as a technical instructor, traveling extensively to military bases across the country. He later worked for 10 years at Water Associates in Framingham and Milford as a facilities coordinator and supervisor before beginning a long tenure of 27 years at Kidde Fenwal in Ashland as a facilities and property supervisor, retiring at age 72. Never one to slow down, Bob continued working another 15 years as a property manager on behalf of the owners of the property where Kidde Fenwal operates, fully retiring at age 88.
Bob and Penny moved to Hopkinton almost 60 years ago to raise their family. He was actively involved in his children’s lives, coaching Little League for his sons’ teams and spending countless hours creating memories—building snow forts, setting up a backyard ice rink, teaching proper lawn care, pouring concrete slabs, building an addition to the house, and always making time to connect. He especially cherished time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, rarely missing sporting events, recitals, school presentations, races, and graduations.
Travel was another joy Bob shared with Penny, particularly trips to Cape Cod and Maine, visiting Dawn in Northern Virginia, and spending time in Prince Edward Island with Michele, Eric, and their family. He also enjoyed antiquing and collecting coins and “K” dollars, often inviting family members to join him in the search.
Bob is survived by his children, Kathy McLaughlin of South Grafton, Dawn Manchester of Milford, Michele (Eric) Hubley of Northboro, Kevin Manchester of Hopkinton, and Keith (Deb) Manchester of Norton. He also leaves his grandchildren, Eric Hubley II, Robert Manchester, Samantha (Michael) Hubley Scola, Alexis Manchester, Madelyn Manchester, and Connor Manchester, and his great-grandchildren, William Manchester, Clayton Hubley, and Chase Hubley. In addition to his parents and siblings, Bob was predeceased by his granddaughter, Jenn McLaughlin.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 8th, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe Street. Burial will follow with full military honors at Saint John’s Cemetery, 24 Mayhew Street, Hopkinton.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/ or to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at https://www.dana-farber.org.
