Robert William Love, Jr.

Professor Emeritus Robert William "Bob" Love, Jr., age 81, passed away on November 19, 2025. He was a longtime resident of Annapolis, Maryland. A devoted scholar, educator, and family man, his life was marked by a deep commitment to history, education, and those he held dear.

Born on May 30, 1944, in San Diego, California, Bob was the son of the late Robert William Love, Sr. and Eleanor Love. His early years laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for learning and service. He pursued higher education with distinction, earning a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from the University of Washington in 1966. During his time there, he was a proud member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. He continued his academic pursuits with a Master of Arts in U.S. History from California State College, Sonoma in 1972 and completed his Doctorate in U.S. History at the University of California, Davis in 1974.

Bob's first job, as a high schooler, was at a fine arts movie theater. He quickly took on a managerial position that provided him a great degree of agency and financial freedom. Prior to graduate school, Bob's first career was as an Executive with Aetna Life and Casualty, Group Division in Seattle, WA. Followed by an extraordinary 46 years of teaching as a Professor in the History Department at the United States Naval Academy. His influence extended far beyond the classroom; he served as a mentor to generations of midshipmen, including many Trident Scholars who benefited from his guidance and expertise. His passion for Naval history was not only evident in his teaching but also in his prolific writing—he authored the two-volume History of the U.S. Navy and edited and contributed to landmark historical works that enriched the field. Bob occasionally served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maryland, further sharing his knowledge with students across institutions.

At home, Bob was a devoted husband to Rose for 53 years—a partnership grounded in love and mutual respect. Together they raised two children: Robert W. Love, III (partner Renee Cornelius), and Kirstie (Ray) Turowski. He took immense pride in being a grandfather to Alina and Leah Turowski, cherishing every moment spent with them.

In 2021, Bob's life was extended for nearly 4 years when he received a lifesaving Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD). His family is forever grateful to the LVAD team at Medstar Washington Hospital Center.

Bob's legacy is one of intellectual rigor balanced by warmth and devotion to family. Those who knew him remember not only his scholarly achievements but also his unwavering love for Rose, their children, and grandchildren.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched through teaching, mentorship, and example. The family respectfully asks for memorial contributions to be made to Anatomy Gifts Registry (https://anatomygifts.org), where he selflessly donated his remains. A private family service will be held at a later date.