Published in the April 14, 2017 edition

OBIT_Robert-Peters-(2)-webMELROSE — Robert J. Peters, 78, a longtime resident of Melrose and proud Army veteran, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Sunday, April 9, 2017.

Bob Peters was born in Somerville on May 26, 1938, a son of the late William and Leveaner Peters. Raised and educated in Somerville, Bob enlisted into the U.S. Army following high school. He proudly served his country as a Private First Class during the Korean War, and his patriotic spirit remained throughout his life. During his service from 1951 until his discharge in 1954, Bob received the Korean Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Medal. Following his honorable discharge, he worked as a truck driver for the Teamsters Local #25.

While a young man, Bob fell in love with the game of hockey. After playing in high school, he played forward for the semiprofessional team, the Rhode Island Red Wings. Hockey remained a huge part of his life as he taught his children how to play and made an impact as a youth coach for many years. Bob was very involved with youth hockey in Melrose and served as a coach for the Melrose Junior Hockey team for many years. Always his own man, Bob loved the Montreal Canadiens, and enthusiastically sang along to the Canadian National Anthem. He also loved working on cars with his longtime friend and good buddy, Michael Flynn of Melrose.

A passionate and ardent supporter for all veterans, Bob was the Post Commander for Lt. Norman F. Prince VFW Post, #1506 for many years. He was also appointed All State Commander for his dedication in support of veterans. His leadership and devotion to veterans’ services will remain as part of his legacy.

A strong and sociable man, Bob made his presence known wherever he was. He enjoyed meals with his wife Sandy at various restaurants and coffee shops, and never could say no to a good buffet. In his free time he enjoyed boating with family and loved going fishing for flounder off Nahant at Egg Rock. Bob was a proud family man, centered his life around family activities, and will be forever missed.

Bob was the beloved husband of the late Sandra L. (Johnston) “Sandy” Peters, with whom he shared 40 years of marriage. He was the devoted father of Robert J. Peters, Jr. and his wife Kim of Anchorage, Arkansas, Scott Peters and his wife Stephanie of Stoughton, Robyn L. Wilson and her husband Kris of Wakefield, Nicole L. Waters of Malden, Duane P. Grandi and his wife Cheryl of Nashua, N.H., Scott A. Grandi and his wife Vickie of Billerica, Mark E. Grandi and his wife Kelly of Everett, and the late Brian Peters. He was predeceased by several siblings. Bob was the cherished grandfather of 17 and the cherished great-grandfather of five.

Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Bob’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Wednesday, April 12 and for his funeral service, which was celebrated on Thursday, April 13 with military honors presented by the U.S. Army. Gifts in Bob’s memory may be made to the Melrose Veterans Relief Fund, c/o Melrose City Hall, Attn: Veterans Services, 562 Main St., Melrose MA 02176. To leave an online remembrance of Bob, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.