Robert Walter Shelley

Robert was born July 28, 1946 in Woburn to Margaret (Murray) Shelley and Michael Shelley. He grew up in Wilmington, attending Wilmington Schools, where he became friends with many people, including his wife Patricia. Robert was affectionately known as “Newsbag” to his friends and people in the town of Wilmington growing up. He started driving when his feet could touch the pedals and later went on to be a very successful and safe cross country truck driver and owner/operator. Robert was not only a member of the Teamsters Union, but also the Carpenters Union, working on numerous big buildings and eventually building on his own. He truly loved being a truck driver, eventually owner/operator, and the many trips that he took with Patricia and eventually their daughter, Denise.

Robert married Patricia Browne on May 16, 1969 and shared 51 beautiful years as husband and wife. Prior to marrying, the two were dear friends throughout their lives. In 1971, they welcomed their daughter Denise, who was their pride and joy.

For Robert, family was everything and came to include son-in-law Michael and granddaughter Caitlin. Robert was a very loving husband and always so proud of Michael, Denise & Caitlin. Caitlin became her Nana & Papa’s pride and joy. Robert would always tell people how blessed he was to have Michael, Denise and Caitlin and definitely brag about how Caitlin was going to Saint Joseph’s to study nursing like her Nana and play on their field hockey team. The loss of his beloved wife Patricia was a loss that he could not bear any longer than he had and he is at peace now, being reunited with his best friend Patricia and also with God.

Robert is survived by his daughter and son, Denise (Shelley) Bouvier and Michael S. Bouvier, his precious granddaughter Caitlin Bouvier, as well as his mother Margaret D. Shelley, sister and brother-in-law Margaret (Shelley) Abbott and Ray Abbott of Florida, nieces and nephews, and many friends throughout the years.

Mass will be held at Holy Trinity Church in Harwich at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 5