Robert Barry Frothingham

On January 31, 2026, we said goodbye to Robert Barry Frothingham (1951 – 2026), a renaissance man. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly. Bob was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and spent most of his life there and in Nonquitt, South Dartmouth. He came into the world with a curious nature, showing a particular interest in mathematics and science. He was a voracious reader and consumed at least a book a week all his life; mostly in the science fiction genre.

Upon graduation from George Washington University, Bob became a self-described “ski bum”, and lived several years in Vermont, where he managed a small motel at Mt. Snow when he wasn’t skiing.

Bob understood the importance of family. He was well-connected to his large extended family. When his ailing father needed his help, he moved back to Dartmouth and built a home in Nonquitt. It was about that time that he returned to school and became a CPA.

A man of the ocean, Bob spent most of his life beside it, on it, or in it. By the time he was a teen, Bob was well on his way to becoming an expert sailor. He enjoyed sailing and wind surfing all his life and was especially happy on his Bristol 21, “Walk-About” and later his Bristol 26.

He developed an interest in scuba diving and went on diving trips in various parts of the world, where he took photographs which adorned the walls of his home. He achieved the level of instructor. He enjoyed tennis and golf, often travelling with friends to play new courses during vacations.

Bob was fascinated by technology. He built every computer he ever owned. Computer gaming caught his interest the moment it was introduced. He became an expert in gaming and, right up until weeks before he passed, he was part of a “rescue squad” for gamers all over the world who needed help during a particular game.

Bob had a wonderful sense of humor and a deep joyful laugh. He liked to have fun, and he liked entertaining. There were many days and nights of food, laughter, and games at Bob’s house.

He was always available to help a friend. His many talents combined with his generous heart made him the man to call whether there was a broken light fixture, a hole in the roof, a legal matter, a broken heart, or you were being audited. He donated his CPA skills to a program for disadvantaged children for 15 years and functioned as Treasurer for Nonquitt for many years.

Bob’s commitment to learning led him to travel extensively both nationally and internationally; however, his residence in Dartmouth, his longstanding companionship with his cats, and his relationships with friends and family always remained his first love.

Bob possessed remarkable talents yet remained modest in his demeanor. Strong and steady. An even keel rooted in honesty. A true gentleman.

Private services will be held in South Dartmouth.