Robert James Buonopane, 79, of Nashua, New Hampshire, passed away on October 10, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. He was a beloved father, “Grumpa,” and dear friend to many.
Bob was born to Josephine and Arthur Buonopane in Boston, Massachusetts, on October 5, 1947, and raised in Roslindale, Massachusetts, in a close-knit Italian-American family. He grew up alongside his older siblings, Mary “Dolly” and Arthur, and will be reunited with them in eternal rest.
At just 18 years old, Bob enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1966. He served his country in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968 as a member of an elite sniper unit and was honorably discharged in 1969. Following his military service, Bob earned a bachelor’s of science degree in electrical engineering from Northeastern University and went on to build a career as a software engineer.
Bob began his family in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, with his former wife, Donna Ritchie, where they welcomed their twin daughters, Rebecca Godlewski and Hilary Buonopane. He is also survived by his companion, Ann Buonopane; his stepchildren, JJ Doak, Missy Ferron, and Chris Ferron; his son-in-law, Sean Godlewski; and Hilary’s life partner JR Santangelo, as well as his beloved grandchildren: Luke and Romy Godlewski, Willow Buonopane and Dante Santangelo, Collin and Gavin Doak, and Kai and Sophie Ferron.
Bob was a man of sacrifice, loyalty, and devotion. For more than five years, he opened his home to his brother Arthur, caring for him and remaining by his side through his final days. That same devotion extended to the fellow veterans he considered his brothers in arms. A dedicated and valued member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Bob served as a former adjutant and, most recently, as treasurer. Through his involvement with the DAV, Bob continued to give back to a community that meant so much to him.
Never one to sit still for long, Bob filled his days with the things he loved. When he wasn’t volunteering at the DAV, he could often be found playing pickleball, table tennis, or pool. He loved swing dancing and riding his Harley—affectionately named “Captain Jack” after his late friend, Jack Barrett. His curiosity and passion for aviation also led him to become certified as a maintenance and restoration volunteer with the Commemorative Air Force New England Wing, dedicating his skills to historic aircraft engine preservation—a testament to his lifelong desire to learn, create, and take on new challenges.
Those who knew Bob were touched by his kindness, generosity, and enormous heart. A gifted and resourceful handyman, he seemed capable of building or fixing just about anything, and he never hesitated to lend his time, skills, or helping hand to family and friends. If someone needed something, Bob showed up.
Bob leaves behind a legacy of unwavering devotion and love expressed through a lifetime of doing for others. He made life better for the people around him, often in the simplest but most meaningful ways. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those fortunate enough to have known and loved him.
A funeral service honoring Bob’s life will be held at Joseph Russo Funeral Home on Monday, November 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Interment and a brief military tribute will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH, on Tuesday, November 24, at 2:00 p.m.
All who knew and loved Bob are warmly invited to attend either or both services as we gather to honor his life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Chapter 7, Nashua, New Hampshire.