Robert Gene Fraser died on November 12 at the side of his beloved wife of 57 years, Patty. In addition to Patty, Bob is survived by his four children: Scott Fraser (Karen Weiss) of Malvern, PA, Josh Fraser (Brandi) of Santa Barbara, CA, Kristin Fraser (Jason Lloyd) of Carpinteria, CA, and Anna Fraser of Santa Barbara, CA. “Grampy” will be dearly missed by his six grandchildren – Nate, Isabelle, Ava, Alex, and Sydney Fraser, and Jacob Lloyd.
A lifelong learner, Bob was the first person in his family to go to college, La Salle University in Philadelphia, where he was a collegiate swimmer. He received his MA in Education from Boston College, following which he and Patty served in the Peace Corps in the Marshall Islands. Bob taught history and became an assistant superintendent of schools in Wayland, and attained an EdD from Boston University and a JD from the New England School of Law. Bob spent the rest of his career as a partner at Stoneman, Chandler & Miller, and a graduate professor at Harvard and Boston University Schools of Education.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2006, Bob dove into learning mode, researching methodically and sharing that knowledge. Bob and Patty were dedicated mentors of the Parkinson’s support community, leading groups for patients and caregivers since 2013.
Bob’s greatest passion was sailing, an endeavor that began as a boy at the Salem YMCA. An accomplished captain, his happiest days were spent on his catamaran, the Ailuk, in Marblehead harbor, sailing the New England coastline, and around the BVIs, sharing his love of the sea, where he’d often say, “The worst day at sea is better than the best day on land.”
Bob was an amazing husband, father and listener. His sage advice, wisdom, and witty one-liners will be greatly missed by his wife, children, and those close to him. His family will hold close the sweet memories of him laughing to a point of tears, dancing at the helm of his boat, and sharing grounded perspective on what’s really important in life. He taught those around him to work hard, play hard, and give back to others.
Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Bob’s life at Holy Family Parish, Saturday, December 2 at 11am, with a reception at Newbury Court immediately following. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Bob’s honor may be sent to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
For Bob’s full obituary and online guestbook, please visit www.DeeFuneralHome.com.
