Robert H. Kendall

God graciously called Robert (Bob) Howard Kendall, 95, to Heaven, on March 2nd. He was the loving husband of Katherine Kendall who predeceased him in 2015. Bob is survived by his children Sandra Burke and her husband Patrick of FL, Linda Hampton Collins and husband Dennis of AL, Kim Kendall of AZ, Tammy Fanelli of MA, Wendy Smith and husband Michael of FL, and Robert Kendall II and husband Michael Grant of MA, He also leaves eleven grandchildren with whom he shared a very close relationship, many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren that he adored.

Bob grew up in Leominster, the son of Harold and Elva Kendall. He was predeceased by his two brothers, George and Ralph and sister Betty. Bob volunteered for the Navy at the young age of 17 and served on three ships from 1945 to 1949. Upon his return from the Navy, he learned the trade of pipe fitting from his father. He went on to work as a foreman for the Pipe Fitter's Union, Local 92.

Bob established his home in Fitchburg and hand-built a summer camp in Winchendon on Lake Monomonac. Bob loved to build, he and his son worked side by side on many projects over the years.

Bob enjoyed staying active and continued to golf into his early 90s. Throughout his life, he also enjoyed mountain climbing (well into his 80s), water skiing, fishing, family trips to the beach, and summers at the lake. He especially loved playing cards and regularly triumphed in countless games of cribbage during his last months.

Bob embodied a true Christian spirit. He loved God, his family, and always endeavored to help others. He was exceptionally generous and regularly donated to various charitable organizations. His quiet acts of kindness and unconditional love for others was a mainstay characteristic throughout his life.

One could not discuss his passing without mentioning the great love he shared with his wife, Kathy. It was a true love. On the first night they met, Bob asked Kathy to marry him. Three months later, they were wed. After raising their family, they retired early and enjoyed the warmth of the Florida sun during the winter months. Now their hands are joined again, and we celebrate his life, a life full of love, generosity, and kindness. Dad, we’ll be seeing you in all the old familiar places!

The family would like to thank The Gables of Fitchburg for their love and exceptional care as well as Andy and Sheila, VNA hospice nurses, who went above and beyond in their dedication to Bob during his remaining months. A very special thanks to Debra, his cribbage pal, and to the Rose Monahan Hospice House for making the last part of Bob’s journey a peaceful transition. In lieu of flowers please consider remembering Bob with an act of kindness or a charitable donation.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, March 7 at Richardson Funeral Home, 106 West St., Leominster, MA. from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, March 8 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Bernard Parish at St. Camillus Church, 333 Mechanic St., Fitchburg, MA. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glennallen St., Winchendon, MA.

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