ROCKLAND — Robert D. Flanders, 85, died peacefully, with his daughter at his side, Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Breakwater Commons in Rockland.

Born in Rockland, August 28, 1940, he was the son of Clarence and Marion Adelaide Tripp Flanders. Educated locally, Bob was a 1960 graduate of Rockland High School.

On August 12, 1960, Bob married Gloria Kavanaugh in Rockland, where they made their home together and raised their three children until her passing in 1991. Later in life, Robert married his second wife, Charlotte Roden, who passed away in 2008.

Following graduation, Bob began a long career at the local hospitals, working first at the old Knox Center and then transferring to Pen Bay Medical Center, after that was built. Bob worked in the Physical Plant for more than 40 years; proudly holding his boiler engineering license. Bob enjoyed telling countless stories of his coworkers and experiences at both locations.

Robert was a lifelong fan of all the New England sports teams, especially the Celtics. He also enjoyed watching racing; prior to his decline, he would visit Wiscasset Raceway to catch a race with his nephew, Maynard. Maynard was a faithful companion to Robert in his later years; they had many adventures, including traveling to Robert’s grandchildren’s sports games. Bob had a strong love for family; he enjoyed any time he spent with them.

One of Bob’s prized possessions was his 1993 Chevy Silverado Indy 500 pace truck. He was famous for cruising town in the truck with his boxer, Zeus hanging out the window. He would often end up at the harbor where he enjoyed sitting and watching the boats.

Predeceased by his wife Gloria; second wife Charlotte; four siblings, Walter Flanders, Albert Flanders, Helen Reed, and Joyce Fogg; and many loved nieces and nephews, including a special nephew, Maynard Fogg formerly of Rockland; Robert is survived by his children; Michael Flanders and his wife Jeanne of Washington, Laura Flanders and her partner Paul Flaherty of Union, Jason Flanders and his wife Renee of Union; his grandchildren, Morgan Flanders and Andrew Flanders both of Union; his sister Barbara Fowles of Rockland; his second wife’s children, Marquita Chambers, and Stewart and Steven Bennett. He is also survived by many remaining nieces and nephews, some of whom continued to visit him until his death.

Bob's family would like to thank Breakwater Commons and their staff for the fabulous care he received during his final year and to Constellation Hospice who helped to make his passing peaceful.

Family and friends are invited to visit Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland, where a celebration of his life will be held Friday, October 10, 2025, at 11 a.m.. He will be laid to rest at Achorn Cemetery.

Those who wish to make a donations in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pope Memorial Humane Society, P.O. Box 1294, Rockland, Maine 04841.