Robert C. Gilmore

EXETER, N.H. - Robert Chatterton Gilmore, longtime professor of history at the University of New Hampshire, died Aug. 13, 2017, at Exeter Hospital.
He was born Dec. 10, 1922, in Proctor, VT, to Howard G. and Carmen (MacGregor) Gilmore. He graduated from Proctor High School in 1940 and from the University of Vermont in 1944.
Robert furthered his education at McGill University and at Yale University, receiving master's degrees from both schools, and then earned his PhD from Yale. While at Yale, he was awarded the Nathan Hale Fellowship and was president of the historical society. He was a member of the Marshall Plan group that toured France, Holland and Belgium following WWII.
His teaching career began at the University of New Brunswick in Canada but the majority of his academic life was spent at the University of New Hampshire.
"Bob," as he was most often known, loved the study of history, starting as a schoolboy, and he was able to share his enthusiasm with many young students over the years. After his retirement, he continued to teach adult education classes. He also served as a student advisor and volunteered at the UNH library. He authored a number of articles and edited several books on the subjects of New Hampshire culture and history.
Bob was never seen without a book or a newspaper in his hand and was never shy about sharing his opinions. He loved Vermont and New Hampshire equally.
He is survived by his sister, Elaine Purdy, of Rutland, VT; his niece, Linda and husband Alan Shelvey, of Shrewsbury, VT; and nephews, Robert Purdy and James Purdy, both of Rutland.
The family wishes to thank Bob's faithful friends, especially Peter Leone, who supported him during his lengthy illness, as well as the faculty and associates at UNH. They also thank the caring staff at Rockingham County Nursing Home and Exeter Hospital.
In accordance with Bob's wishes, there will be no services and burial will be in Proctor at a later date. Kent & Pelczar Funeral Home in Newmarket, NH, is in charge of arrangements.