Robert R. Stapel

Pepperell, MA - Robert R. Stapel, age 74, of Pepperell, Massachusetts passed away on Sunday, January 27, 2019 after a short illness.

Robert was born January 18, 1945 in Concord, MA to the late Walter P. Stapel and Rita J. (Tousignant) Stapel.  He grew up in Maynard, MA, spending much of his childhood playing baseball.  He graduated from Maynard High School in 1963.  Upon graduating, he enlisted in the United States Air Force serving his country from 1964-1968.  While in active service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.  Drawing on his training in the military, Robert was a career-long photographer for Raytheon.

Robert was a gentle, quiet man with a wonderful wit.  He loved reading and always had a book within arm’s reach.  He also loved being outdoors and could often be found puttering around the yard and taking care of his beloved backyard birds.  He enjoyed traveling to favorite locations in New Hampshire, Canada, and DisneyWorld in Florida.  Robert’s passion for photography filled many family photo albums and his camera bag accompanied him everywhere.  However, Robert’s greatest love was spending time with his family.  Robert’s devotion to his wife, children, and grandchildren was unsurpassed.  He found his greatest happiness in their presence, and they in his.  His kind heart and warm strength will be greatly missed.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Hazel M. (Wedge) Stapel and two children, Michelle E. Stapel of Pepperell and Dennis J. Sweeney of Gloversville, New York.  He also leaves four grandchildren: Sabrina Pinkerton, Derek Pinkerton, Kyra Lewis, and Dennis Curran and one great-grandson, Corbin Curran.  Robert was predeceased by his sister, Joan Stapel and brother, Paul W. Stapel.  He is survived by his brother, Edward J. Stapel of Burlington, WA.

Relatives and friends will gather in the McGaffigan Family Funeral Home, 37 Main St. (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA 01463 on Saturday, Feb. 9 from 2 - 3 PM, with a Memorial Service to follow at 3 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes to have donations made to the Cancer Research Institute at www.cancerresearch.org. To share a memory or to offer a condolence, please see www.mcgaffiganfuneral.com