Robert B. “Bob” Dempster, age 81, passed peacefully at his home in Medford on Sunday, June 29th. Born October 12th,1943, in Medford, Robert’s life was a reflection of his caring nature, devotion and loyalty.

Bob, a proud graduate of Medford High School, continued his education at Tufts University where he developed a strong foundation for a long and successful career in management.

Early in his career, Bob worked for Massachusetts Probation Services as well as having managed several other local businesses. In the early 1970s, he embarked on a new adventure. Moving to Virginia he embraced new and diverse roles such as a construction site manager and convenience store manager for 7-11 (And transitioning into a cowboy since he now resided in the South. Yes, he thought anyone living in the South was a cowboy and he had the boots and duster to prove it). After returning to the Medford area in the late 1990s, Bob continued his retail career in a supervisory capacity. While at Toys R Us, where even though in his mid fifties, he learned to be a kid again. He then entered into the world of pet ownership and caring for animals when he accepted a management position at Petco. There he learned all facets of animal care and mentored junior staff members. After 25 years of service at Petco, Bob retired in 2024.

Bob cherished time spent with his family and friends. Some of his favorite activities were hosting WWE watch parties, bowling, playing pool at Good Times Emporium, playing Yahtzee and going to see movies on the big screen, especially from the action and horror genres. Bob also enjoyed long drives up the Maine coast. Stopping to visit lighthouses, enjoying the sounds of waves crashing against the cliffs, and the smell of the sea air where what he envisioned paradise to be.

Bob was an avid sports fan. Listening to sports radio and having enthusiastic discussions with friends and family about all the local sports teams was exhilarating for him. He absolutely loved football. The NY Giants were his all-time favorite team and he had rooted for them from the time he was a child. In addition to football, he also loved watching basketball. Whether it be NBA games, WNBA games, or college games. He looked forward to March Madness every year. Needless to say he was a huge Celtics fan. When it came to baseball The Red Sox were his favorite baseball team with Big Papi being his favorite player. He often sported his white R. Dempster jersey as it was his favorite shirt to wear.

Loving memories will be cherished by his wife and partner of 32 years, Lynnette Duran of Medford; his daughter Julie Carrozo and husband Charley of West Newbury; his daughter Jennifer Stevens of Beverly and their mother Jeanne; his son Robert and wife Nicole of Columbus OH, and Robert’s mother Gail. Bob was a proud and loving grandfather to Jack Stevens, Thomas Carrozo, Holden Dempster and Cole Dempster. Robert was preceded in death by his father James Gordon Dempster Sr. and mother Katherine Ericcson Dempster; his brother James Gordon Dempster Jr. and wife Margaret Schulte. Bob is also survived by a host of relatives, in-laws and friends.

Bob’s compassion, generosity, and graciousness touched the hearts of so many. Though we will miss him greatly, his spirit will remain in our hearts and thoughts.

Please check the website for updated service information.