G. Robert Stetson Jr.

G. Robert Stetson Jr., 65, of Marlborough, died Friday, April 27, 2012, at Marlborough Hospital, after being stricken ill at home. He leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Sandra (Ronan) Stetson; his son, R. Matthew Stetson and his wife, Ann, of Long Island; and his daughter, Anita Stetson and her husband, Timothy Kinney, of Marlborough. He also is survived by his parents, G. Robert Stetson Sr. and Estelle (Ives) of Marlborough; a brother, David Stetson of Columbus, Ohio, a brother, Peter Stetson and his wife, Randy, of Victoria, British Columbia; a sister-in-law, Elizabeth Askue; four granddaughters; and six nieces and nephews. Bob was born in Southbridge, and resided in Marlborough for the last 40 years. He was a graduate of Apponequet Regional High School and received his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from SMTI (UMass Dartmouth). Bob was manager and co-owner (with his wife) of Marlboro Airport for the past 13 years. He was previously employed for 35 years as a senior software engineer at Raytheon in Marlborough. He learned to fly at Marlboro Airport and had been a certificated pilot for 20 years. It was his passion to promote general aviation, serving on the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Airport Management Association, and he proudly mentored the Real World Design Challenge team at Marlborough High School. Calling hours are Monday, April 30, from 5 to 8 p.m., at the John P. Rowe Funeral Home Inc., 57 Main St., Marlborough. Cremation will follow with private services and burial at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to EAA Chapter 673, c/o Marlboro Airport or First Church in Marlborough (Congregational) UCC.