Robert S. Stowe Jr.

1937 - 2023

Robert S. Stowe Jr., a distinguished educator and psychologist, passed away on October 19, 2023 leaving a legacy of knowledge, compassion, and a profound impact on the lives of countless students and colleagues. He was born on August 11, 1937, in Worcester, Massachusetts, the oldest of 4 sons, to Robert S. Stowe Sr. and Florence Tiemeyer Stowe of Boylston. He went on to lead a life filled with remarkable achievements and experiences.

Bob or "Bobby" as he was known to family, was a remarkable individual from an early age, demonstrating his passion for education and civic engagement. He was a boy scout and a youth leader in the First Congregational Church of Boylston. While attending Wachusett High School in 1955, as a high school senior, he read the Gettysburg Address on Memorial Day to the town, showcasing his eloquence and sense of duty to his community.

After graduating from Fitchburg State College in 1959 with a degree in mathematics, Bob dedicated himself to the field of education. He began his teaching journey by spending two years in White Plains, New York, teaching 4th grade. His dedication to teaching brought him to Amherst, Massachusetts, in 1961, where he embarked on a teaching fellowship and earning his masters degree at the University of Massachusetts.

Bob's career in education continued to flourish, encompassing five years at Camp School in New Britain, CT teaching 4th grade and a year at Vance School in the same capacity. During this time he relocated with his wife Joyce, to Avon, CT. His passion for teaching and learning led him to delve deeper into the field, culminating in seven years of dedicated study, during which he earned his Ph.D. His doctorate was completed in 1970 and officially awarded in 1971 by the University of Connecticut.

For over four decades, Bob served as a dedicated professor in the Psychology Department at Central Connecticut State University. His contributions spanned a wide array of subjects, including learning theory, child growth and development, statistics, minority groups, intercultural sensitivity, cognitive psychology, gerontology, and the psychology of poverty. He played a pivotal role in initiating exchange programs between Bolton, UK and the Bundeswehr in Hamburg, Germany, fostering international understanding and collaboration. He studied the lives of women from both countries during WWII and presented a collection of their stories to the Gerontological Society of America.

In the 1980s, he achieved the prestigious status of full professor and also spearheaded the Student Honors Program in the Psychology Department, nurturing the academic growth of future psychologists. He was affectionately known as the "guru" of the psychology department, inspiring his students and colleagues with his wisdom and dedication.

Bob was a man of diverse experiences and interests. He witnessed a significant moment in history when he visited the Stonewall bar a week before the riot, a pivotal event in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. He was active in this movement and involved in the gay community on Cape Cod. During the Woodstock era, he opened his home to hippies traveling to the event, reflecting his open-minded and welcoming nature.

In 2000, Bob retired from his teaching career, moved from Burlington, CT to Cape Cod and in 2003, he embarked on a personal journey to overcome alcoholism and achieve sobriety. His courage and determination served as an inspiration to those around him for the next 20 years.

Throughout his life, Bob served his country as a member of the National Guard in the 1960s and as an officer in the Coast Guard Auxiliary in the 1990s. He was an avid lover of Cape Cod, spending 39 summers there, creating cherished memories with family and friends.

An accomplished craftsman, Bob built three houses and indulged in furniture restoration and painting. In his retirement, he found solace in watercolor artistry and was an avid collector of art and antiques. He painted flowers and cats every day and he had a particular fondness for the work of KEF, a German graffiti artist.

Bob was married to Joyce L. Stowe for 18 years, and the two shared many adventures together. The best years of his life, however, were partnered with Dr. Mark E. Lynch for two decades, and he later shared six meaningful years with his second partner, Jim. Bob leaves 2 children. Jonathan Stowe, of Charlottesville Virginia and Jennifer Curci of Windsor Colorado. He also leaves 7 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.

Bob Stowe was a multifaceted individual who left an indelible mark on his students, colleagues, and the world. His passion for education, unwavering dedication to his field, and zest for life have left an enduring legacy. He will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched. A memorial service will be held at the First Congregational Church of Boylston, MA on Saturday, November 4th at 10:00 AM.