Robert “Bob” Kasprzak of Charlestown, NH

October 2, 1935-August 16, 2013

Bob was one of eight children born and raised in Camden NJ. He had a colorful childhood rich with adventures, pranks, and more than his share of mischief. He enjoyed sharing (the milder) stories of his youth with his children and grandchildren much to their delight. Bob attended Catholic schools as long as the nuns would have him.  He met the love of his life, Jacqueline Teal, on a blind date and they spent many happy times at the Jersey shore together. Bob joined the army and was posted at Fort Dix for his basic training and he and Jackie married just before he went to Korea for a tour of duty there.

Upon his return, the newlyweds lived in New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania and had two daughters, the youngest of which Bob delivered in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. Despite closeness with their families and a love of their Jersey roots, when Bob was offered a job in Vermont, he and Jackie gladly embraced the opportunity and moved their young family to Hartland.

During those first years in Hartland, Bob put himself through night school at Nathaniel Hawthorne College while working fulltime in the finance field. He earned a BA in business spent his career in finance. He retired after 20 years as assistant VP and manager for the Connecticut River Bank in Langdon, NH. He loved his job and coworkers there and his home and dear friends in Charlestown, NH where he and Jackie lived for 30 years. During this time, they were involved in many community activities. Bob took up golfing and even got a hole in one (not at mini golf!).  They enjoyed many years of hosting family and friends and sharing their beloved New England.

When their nest emptied, they took up travelling and toured Europe together on many occasions. Some highlights were living in Prague for a few months, touching Mozart’s piano on a dare from his daughter Jackie (despite the numerous signs forbidding it), and visiting cousins in Poland where he got to brush up on his rusty Polish. He was very proud of his heritage (often answering his phone in Polish) and passed important traditions and recipes on to his family.

Bob and Jackie had just celebrated their 50^th anniversary when she was diagnosed with cancer. He helped to care for her for as long as she could be safely at home. Bob was a good father,  strict (and stubborn), but he always let his love and support be known. As a grandfather, he will forever be known as “Super Poppy”.  His four grandkids were the apples of his eye. He took great joy in spending time with them, supporting their endeavors, hearing of their adventures, and celebrating their many quirks.

Despite his long illness, Bob stayed true to his character and kept his dignity and sense of humor throughout his treatment. He was a fine example of a life well-lived with faith and family.

Bob is survived by his two daughters, his son-in-law, four grandchildren, a large extended family, and his beloved cat, Hershey, all of whom will miss him greatly.

Donations can be made in Bob’s memory to the Friendly Meals Program of Charlestown, NH care of Nancy Parsons, Treasurer, PO Box 32,    Charlestown, NH 03603.