Robert C. Yankee, 89 of Westboro formerly of Franklin, died February 3 in the Milford Regional Medical Center. He was the husband of the late Loretta M. (Braunfeld) Yankee for 56 years until her death in 2013.
Born in Franklin, August 28,1927, the son of the late Herman and Hazel (Clapham) Yankee, he was raised and had lived in Franklin until recently moving to Westboro.
Mr. Yankee was a graduate of Franklin High School and attended the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.
He had been a mechanical engineer for the Northrop Corporation for over 40 years before retiring.
Bob had been an active member of the Franklin Federated Church.
An accomplished photographer, he was a founder,first president, and life member of the Stony Brook Camera Club. He was also a past president and honorary life vice president of the New England Camera Club Council.
Bob taught photography courses for many years for Franklin Adult Education, Dean College, and the Massachusetts Audubon Society. He was particularly passionate about photographing the land and seascapes of the Outer Cape. He truly loved introducing people to photography and sharing his knowledge with them.
Bob was also a jazz trumpet player with a vast collection of jazz and classical recordings. He loved the roar of a driving, swinging big band, and was frequently attended clubs and concerts to hear them.
Mr. Yankee served in the Army during World War II attaining the rank of Sergeant.
He is survived by his sons, David Yankee and his wife Terry (Tyler) of Chicopee and Brian Yankee and his wife Maggie Korab of Shrewsbury.He is also survived by his grandsons, Jacob and William Yankee.
He is also survived by his sister Beverly Joyce of Franklin and was the brother of the late Richard Yankee. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Gloria Yankee of Medfield.
His funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 8 in the Franklin Federated Church, 171 Main Street, Franklin at 11:00.
Burial will be in Union Street Cemetery.
Calling hours will be on Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. in the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com) 131 Main Street, Franklin.
In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made in his memory to the NECCC Memorial Fund, 157 Forest Hills Rd. Springfield, MA 01128.