SFC Robert Francis Hill, USA (Ret.)

It is with a deep ache in our hearts that we announce the passing of Sgt. First Class Robert F. “Bob” Hill, USA (Ret.) on Saturday, May 6th, 2023 in his home in Pepperell, MA.

Bob is survived by his daughter Susanne (Susie) L. Mendes of Kingston, MA (Son in Law Andrew) and stepdaughters Tania L. Granberg of Milford NH, & Angela Nicole Hackney of Townsend, MA (Son in Law Bill). He was predeceased by his son Robert F. Hill Jr. of Chatham, MA and wife Sharon E. Hill also of Pepperell, MA. He is also survived by his sister Janet Willy of Abington, MA (Husband Cliff) and grandchildren Dan, Mark, & Joe Mendes all of Kingston, MA, Cally L. Stone & Blake N.W. Stone of Milford NH, and William N. Hackney of Townsend MA, as well as many other extended family members in the Boston and Florida area.

Bob served in the United States Army for 30 years in various campaigns, including Desert Storm. His last assignment was with the 309th Combat Engineer Medical Support Unit at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, while also maintaining his role as Motor NCO. He succeeded in both roles and received many awards before retiring in 2001 - but Bob's heart truly belonged to his 756th Combat Engineer Unit. He worked as a press operator in one of the first and largest printing operations in Hanover, MA in his early years.

Bob was very proud of his contributions as a soldier and the friendships he formed even after his retirement. He was a lifetime member of the Pepperell VFW where he had his favorite bar stool, parking spot, and enjoyed playing Thursday cribbage with his favorite partner. A special crew of his most cherished Army buddies met there on the 3rd Saturday of each month. On the sad occasion a member passed on, a toast with a special bottle of spirits would take place.

I am certain glasses will be raised high for their longtime friend on a Saturday soon.

Bob loved his beer, (Miller High Life) Marlboro Reds, golfing, traveling, his 50's - 70's music, the Bee Gees & The Eagles, Patriots football, and to sit on his porch in the sun with good company and a beer. He loved sharing his Army stories. He was laid back but set in his ways. He was a jokester, but genuine, and if he loved you he would do anything for you. His voice was gruff, but he wasn't. His exterior was tough but his heart was soft and made of gold. He could never be replaced, he will never be forgotten, and he will be forever loved and forever missed.

Visiting hours will be held in the McGaffigan Family Funeral Home, 37 Main St., (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Thursday, May 18th from 4 – 7 p.m. Graveside services will be conducted at Groton Cemetery, 242 Hollis St., Groton, MA on Friday, May 19th at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pepperell VFW Post #3291 ( www.vfwpost3291.org )