Born in Peterborough, NH, Bob was a veteran of the United States Navy and served our country in the Korean War. Following his military career, Bob attended the University of New Hampshire earning a BA in Hotel and Restaurant Management.
Bob’s career in hotel and restaurant management included the management of the Sherwood Hotel, the Green Ridge Turkey Farm, and the White Cliffs Country Club in Plymouth, Massachusetts. While at White Cliffs, he oversaw the construction of their golf course. He also owned and operated a Haywood Farms dairy bar in Peterborough.
In the 70’s, the time consuming nature of the hospitality business led to a career change, earning a Master’s Degree in Education at Keene State, and a location change, moving to Jupiter, FL. Bob taught at both Jupiter Elementary and Jerry Thomas Elementary. Although he enjoyed his first profession, his proudest achievement was teaching.
Bob loved playing golf, both in North Carolina and Fl. He worked as a starter and ranger in both places, and was known for his helpful, happy, giving, loving, humorous ways. He was known as Bubba to friends and family, and his kind, gentle ways will be missed.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Krystene, of Jensen Beach, Fl.; daughter, Rebecca Rajaniemi Bacon; son, Peter Rajaniemi; along with step children, Joseph Kiernan, James Kiernan, Krystene Kiernan Smith, Daniel Kiernan, Kathleen Kiernan Laden, and Theresa Kiernan Miller; sister Anita Crowell; fourteen grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
Bob was predeceased by his brothers, John and Arthur Rajaniemi; sister, Alene Rajaniemi McLean; and step-son, William Kiernan.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2019 from 9:30AM-10:30AM with a memorial service to begin at 10:00AM at Aycock funeral Home in Jensen Beach, FL.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in his honor to Treasure Coast Hospice, 1201 SE Indian Street, Stuart, FL 34997.
