Robert J. Simonelli, 88, of Shrewsbury

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Robert J. SimonelliShrewsbury/Worcester – Robert J. “Bob” Simonelli, 88, passed away peacefully Thursday, March 29, 2018 at Beaumont Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Northbridge.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Doris (Briggs) Simonelli; his sons, Robert Simonelli and James Simonelli and his wife Diana; his grandchildren; Gina Simonelli, Maria Meyers, and Julia and Anna Simonelli, Linnea Davidson and Farrell Mead, and his great-granddaughter, Harper Faith Meyers; his sister, Jean Gray; and niece Joanne Gray.

Bob was born Aug. 1, 1929 in Worcester, son of the late Mary (Casale) and Eleutario “Jimmy” Simonelli. His roots were in the Rice Square neighborhood in Worcester and later, with Doris, raised his family in Grafton.

Bob served with distinction in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict doing Field Reconnaissance where he earned the Bronze star for his valor. Returning home, he embarked on a lengthy career in the field of mechanical engineering as a registered professional engineer and holder of several patents.

Bob worked at A & M Tool & Die and Sleeper & Hartley as a Chief Mechanical Engineer before establishing his own firm, Engineering Design and Technology in 1984, which he ran alongside his son Bob until 1999.

Away from work, Bob was an accomplished musician playing piano and saxophone where he was known across Central Massachusetts and played with numerous bands for over four decades. Bob’s musical experiences are chronicled in the Worcester Jazz History database. He also had a passion for tennis, playing often with close friends even into his late 70s. Family mattered most to Bob, however, particularly his grandchildren with whom he took great delight in surprising them with visits and trips along with his wife Doris.

Throughout his life, and even to the end, Bob’s quick wit and friendly caring nature were his hallmark. His love and humor will be cherished forever.

Please honor Bob with a memorial donation to the Massachusetts/New Hampshire Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452.

All are welcome to gather with Bob’s family Tuesday, April 3, from 5-8 p.m., at Roney Funeral Home, 152 Worcester St., North Grafton. A prayer service will be held Wednesday, April 4, at 11 a.m., at the funeral home. He will then be laid to rest at Pine Grove Cemetery in North Grafton.

A Book of Memories to offer a message of sympathy to his family or share a favorite memory is available online at www.RoneyFuneralHome.com.

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