FRANKLIN—Robert J. “Bob” Bielski 64, of Franklin, died peacefully, at home surrounded by his family, Monday February 18, 2013. He was the beloved husband of Sheila M. (Larson) Bielski.
Born May 18, 1948 in Needham, a son of the late Francis J. and Dorothy H. (Trowbridge) Bielski, he was a resident of Franklin for over 30 years and was a former resident of Needham, Florida and North Dakota.
Robert was raised and educated in Needham, where he was a 1966 graduate of Needham High School and received his Masters degree from the University of North Dakota. For many years he taught Small Business Management at Indian River Community College, Dean College, Mass Bay and other multiple colleges. He retired as principal in 2012 from Howland Detention Center in Taunton.
He served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War; he attained the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged in June 1971.
Robert was a devoted family man; he treasured time spent with his wife, children and grandchildren, his extended family and friends. He was the founder and head coach of the Dean Hockey Club, a member of the Needham Council Knights of Columbus, the Disabled American Veterans and a member of St. Mary’s Church, Franklin.
In addition to his wife of 41 years, he is survived by his children; Jovan J. Bielski and Brooke R. Oliver both of Franklin, a brother Francis T. Bielski of Westwood, his grandchildren Brian M. & Tyler J. Oliver, a niece Lynne A. Melia and her husband Josh of Needham a nephew Robert F. Bielski of Millis and his grand niece and grand nephew Samantha and Joshua Melia.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Saturday Feb. 23rd, at 9AM from the Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. Franklin, www.oterifuneralhome.com, with a funeral Mass in St. Jude Church 86 Main St. Norfolk at 10AM.
Burial with military honors at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne will be held at a later date.
Calling hours are Fri. from 4-8PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to Dana Farber Cancer Institute 20 Prospect St. Milford, MA 01757.