Robert Arthur Howe

Robert Arthur Howe, "Bob", a life-long resident of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the age of 81.
Bob was born on August 13, 1943; he was the son of the late Martha (Field) and Chester Howe. Bob was raised on Silver Lake with his six siblings: Chester Howe Jr., Donald Howe, Lawrence Howe, Nancy (Howe) Wheeler, Richard "Dick" Howe, Sandra (Howe) McFeeters.
Bob's favorite childhood memories included his second family; the Sabre family--his Aunt Midge, Uncle Jack and his cousins, Steve and Mark. Throughout his life, Bob and his daughter, Susan, enjoyed many visits to the Sabre home in Wilmington and North Woodstock, NH, often traveling with them all over New England and Canada. Bob and Susan made many great memories on road trips, camping, and enjoying life's simple pleasures with them.
Following high school, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army on February 24, 1961. He served as a mechanic for three years before his honorable discharge on February 11, 1964. Bob returned home to his family and married the love of his life, Barbara Ann (D'Amico) Howe.
Bob and Barbara proudly raised their daughter Susan (Howe) Sargent in Wilmington. They were a wonderful couple who loved to entertain their neighbors, friends, and family over the years. They especially loved bringing the family together around holidays and birthdays, never missing a celebration. During their life together, Bob and Barbara gave all to others and always had an "open door" policy.
Bob was affectionally known as "Papa" to his three grandchildren, Sean, Laura, and Megan. He was the "best papa" and was always very supportive. Bob was especially proud of his daughter and grandchildren, always sharing their achievements and sharing words of encouragement.
In the grandchildren's youth, Bob was their babysitter and watched them every summer: truly creating a bond like no other. He loved playing cards with them, most often cribbage and Uno, and teaching the kids cooking skills, often making "creepy crawlers" with Sean or making new recipes with Laura and Megan in their "easy bake oven." Bob especially loved baking and the family has many fond memories of making birthday cakes and favorite family recipes together.
Bob was a trusted confidant and a wonderful support to his grandchildren. He would stop whatever he was doing to listen and would always promise to keep their secrets safe with him. Bob would help them with anything and keep it between them.
Bob will be remembered as a "jack of all trades" by his friends and family. He was knowledgeable in areas such automotive mechanics, wood working, gardening, general contracting, and various cooking styles. Bob's wisdom and love will be greatly missed.
Bob was the devoted father of Susan Sargent & her partner Bud Hall of Billerica, loving "Papa" of Sean Sargent, Laura Small & her husband Thomas, and Megan Sargent & her partner Alexander Benning; and "Great Papa" to his two great grandchildren. Bob is survived by his sister Sandra McFeeters, his brother Dick Howe, his life-long best friend Billy Nolan, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Funeral Services for Bob will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Bob's name may be made to the MSPCA-Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844.