Robert Fanning

Robert "Bob" Fanning, Sr., 60, passed away on Thursday, May 12, five days before his 61st birthday from complications of pneumonia, with his family at his side. He was born in Worcester, the son of the late George E. and Viola "Lola" G. (Flagg) Fanning. He was predeceased by his brother Thomas Fanning in 1985.

Bob leaves behind his wife of 16 years, Eilene (Nevins) Fanning, his son Robert G. Fanning, Jr. of Dudley, stepchildren James and Kathleen D'Andrea of Worcester. He also leaves his sister Patricia Fanning-French and husband Howard French, nieces Catherine and Emily, and nephew Thomas, all of Dudley.

Bob graduated from Holy Name Central Catholic High School in Worcester and Worcester State College with a degree in Business Administration. He went on to work for Philip Morris Corporation for 20 years before retiring in 1999. In his younger days, Bob enjoyed the sports of baseball, running, softball and golf. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father, brother, cousins, and friends. He was a long time member of the Singletary Rod and Gun in Oxford.

In his later years Bob came to enjoy cooking and was an excellent cook. He was extremely proud of his father's WWII service in the US Army Air Force and often spoke about it. He was proudest, though, of his son Bobby and his accomplishments in school and sports but especially the upstanding young man that he is. He never missed an opportunity to speak glowingly about his son.

Bob had a generous nature and a kind heart and will be missed by many.

Bob's memorial calling hours will be held on Monday, May 16th from 5 to 7 p.m. at Mulhane Home for Funerals, 45 Main Street in Millbury.

There will be a funeral service celebrating Bob's life following the calling hours at 7 p.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charity of the donor's choice.