Joseph E. Robertshaw
Beloved husband, educator, and physicist
Joseph E. Robertshaw, 91, of North Providence, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, October 21st, surrounded by his family. He was the devoted husband of Margie E. (Malone) Robertshaw, with whom he shared 32 years of marriage.
Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Frank A. and Myra F. (Schmieder) Robertshaw. A lifelong learner and teacher, Joe was a proud graduate of Providence College, Class of 1956, and went on to earn his Ph.D. in Physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Class of 1961.
Joe dedicated more than three decades to Providence College, where he served as Professor and longtime Chairman of the Physics Department from 1973 until his retirement in 2006. His passion for science, precision, and discovery inspired generations of students. A prolific scholar, Joe authored numerous scientific publications that reflected his depth of knowledge.
Beyond the classroom, Joe’s brilliance extended to his work with NASA at the Johnson Space Center and the University of Houston, where he was a member of the spacecraft design team and led the lunar vehicle design effort in 1969.
He also contributed his expertise to the Rhode Island Nuclear Reactor Utilization and Radiation Safety Committee from 1963 through 2006, guiding the state’s efforts in safe and responsible scientific advancement.
Quiet and thoughtful by nature, Joe found joy in books, travel, birdwatching, and quiet reflection shared with those close to him. He cherished his family deeply - his wife Margie, his late sister, Marilyn VanNieuwenhuyze, and brother, Frank Robertshaw, and all who were fortunate to know him. His intellect was vast, but his humility and kindness were greater still.
His funeral and burial were private, in keeping with his wishes.
Donations in his memory may be made to the Providence College Department of Physics, 1 Cunningham Square, Providence, RI 02918.