Robert L. “Bob” Westwater passed away on February 27, 2024, at Winchester Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Dorchester, Massachusetts, Bob’s life was marked by his signature gentleness, incredible intellect, and a deep Catholic faith.
Bob was the youngest of seven children, raised by his strong mother, Martha, on St. Margaret’s Street. His early years were filled with the warmth of family and the solid foundation of education which he carried throughout his life. Bob enjoyed two careers, one in the insurance industry and the other as a longtime adjunct professor at Northeastern University.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Marie (Kerrigan) with whom he shared 62 years; children, Robert L. Westwater Jr. and his wife Julie, Martha A. Hirschfield and husband Donnie and Mark A. Westwater; many nieces, nephews, and, his greatest achievements, grandchildren Patrick, Maeve, Maureen, and Robert (III) Westwater, and Trey, Damien and Ronan Hirschfield.
He is also survived by his dearest sibling, Sister Martha Westwater, Sisters of Charity, Halifax, with whom he shared the fondest memories of his late brothers and sisters, Agnes, Joseph, Evelyn Doyle, Donald and Sister Joanne Westwater, Sisters of the Good Shepherd. Faith was the cornerstone of Bob’s life, and he was easily pleased with a cold beer and a good book. Never the spotlight, always the keen observer, Bob’s gentle spirit will be missed by many.
Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with Bob’s Family on Thursday, March 7th, from 9am – 10am in St. Agnes Church, 186 Woburn St, Reading, MA 01867 with Bob’s Funeral Mass immediately following at 10:30am. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider a memorial gift to the Saint Vincent de Paul Society of Reading, 184 Woburn Street, Reading, MA 01867.
