Shrewsbury – Robert James Arakelian, 80, of Shrewsbury, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 24, 2023 following a long series of health challenges.
Bob was born in Worcester, the son of the late Arthur and Rose (Ferrante) Arakelian. He spent the majority of his life in Shrewsbury, where he and his wife lived and raised their three children.
He is survived by the love of his life of 65 years, Geraldine (Rossetti) Arakelian, his son Robert Arakelian his wife Kristen and their daughter Lauren of Boylston, a daughter Stacey Towle, her husband Dennis and their children James and Riley of Sutton, and son Steven his wife Christine and their children Blake and Shayne, of Mountain Lakes, NJ: extended family and many friends.
Bob was a graduate of Shrewsbury High School and received his Bachelors Degree from Syracuse University where he was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, and received his commission as an Army Officer through their Army ROTC Program. He then went on to earn his Juris Doctorate in Law from Boston University. Following his graduation from BU Law School, Bob was deployed to serve in Vietnam as a Captain with the First Armored Division and was awarded the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service.
Bob practiced as a private attorney in the City of Worcester, recently receiving his 50 Year Distinguished Service Award from the Worcester County Bar Association. He also held the honor and distinction of arguing a case before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.
He enjoyed his breakfast and lunch outings with his Attorney friends and would joke about how they would all come to him for legal advice. Bob was also an avid golfer and a long-time member of Pleasant Valley Country Club. The highlight of his week was Friday date night with his wife, Gerri “down south” to Foxwoods Casino. He was a true expert in the game of Craps, loved to discuss strategy for hours at a time, and was willing to school anyone willing to listen in on the intricacies of the game.
He always emphasized the importance of family and was fortunate to have spent Thanksgiving surrounded by the family that he loved and adored. He was especially proud of all of his grandchildren, who referred to him as” Pup”, and his eyes would always light up when any of them walked into the room. Pup will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and colleagues.
Friends are invited to calling hours Wednesday, November 29th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be held Thursday, November 30th from the funeral home departing in procession at a 10:30 am to St Mary’s Church, 640 Main St Shrewsbury where his funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am. Burial with military honors will follow in Mt View Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in his name can be made to Veterans Inc. 60 Grove Street Worcester, MA 01608.
