The only child of Eleanor (Olson) and Willard Rowell, Robert was born and raised in Wrentham, MA. After leaving school, Robert worked hard and played harder. He worked in the construction and demolition fields while raising his first family. In Wrentham Bob enjoyed motorcycles, crashing cars, ice fishing and being a wild man.
Bob relocated to Wellfleet in 1980 and worked in the building and plumbing trades until employment as Assistant Shellfish Warden led him to his true passion, the Wellfleet Oyster. Bob became a shellfish grant holder and spent many years cultivating steamers and the perfect cocktail oyster, until his illness left him house bound.
A simple man, Bob never wanted for much. His devotion was to his family and the oyster. Bob loved storytelling, practical jokes, and could always make people laugh. Bob was a great cook, a backyard gardener, and loved nature. An avid birder, Bob took much comfort from the bluebirds that always visited.
Robert is survived by his wife and soul mate, Angela (Sherlock) Rowell of Wellfleet and their children Amanda Rowell- Green (Termaine Smith) of Hyannis, Ashley Rowell (Jonah Cavanaugh) of Wellfleet, Michael Rowell and Daniel Rowell of Wellfleet. Robert is survived by his children Robin Rowell- Parker and Robert Rowell Jr. of Attleboro,MA, Rhonda Howe (Bill) of Brooksville FL, Renee Rowell-Buswell (James) of Colorado Springs, CO, Gina Westerlind (Jorge Brasil) of Taunton, MA and Ryan Rowell (Julie) of Falmouth MA. Robert also leaves behind his former wife and good friend, Janet (Morrison) Rowell of Taunton, MA, eleven grandchildren, soon to be twelve, one great grandchild, a cousin Judy Hagopian of Wrentham, MA, brother-in- law, Timmy Sherlock of Wellfleet, dear friends Joel and Anne Fox of Wellfleet, and the entire Wellfleet shellfishing community.
The family would like to thank VNA Hospice, Ann Culver R.N., and everyone at Outer Cape Health Services, especially Dr. Barbara Prazak for their help in keeping Bob comfortable.
A visitation memorial will be held on Robert’s birthday, January 12,2013 from 3-5 p.m. at Nickerson’s Funeral Home 340 Main Street in Wellfleet.
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