Robert Coleman Kaplan

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 1943, Bobby was the son of Samuel Kaplan and Etta (Wallace) and spent his early childhood growing up in Dorchester and Sharon, MA, before moving to Florida in his early 30s, where he built a life and career as a Real Estate Broker. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964.

Bobby was larger than life, standing 6 foot 3 — with a heart that was just as big. In Massachusetts, he worked alongside his father, Sam, as a newspaper distributor for the Record American, a proud Teamster who later became a public adjuster. After relocating to Florida, he transitioned into a career as a real estate broker, where his ability to connect with people made him successful.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Bobby was known for his loyalty to family, quick wit, and generous spirit. He had an incredible ability to make those around him feel valued and heard, always ready with a story, a joke, or a helping hand.

He is survived by his devoted daughters Susan Kaplan, daughter-in-law Debbie Cumberland of Maryland, Michelle Kaplan, son-in-law Michael Grosswirth of Boston, and his sister, Marla Justice of Norton. He was predeceased by his beloved sisters, Beverly Epstein and brother-in-law Melvin Epstein of Sharon, MA and West Palm Beach, Florida, and Norma Staula and brother-in-law David "Davey" Staula of Brockton, MA. Bobby was forever proud of his three grandchildren, Emily Jacobs, Joshua Jacobs, and Blake Cumberland-Kaplan, and loved his grand dogs, Maggie, Lola & Thor. He also had treasured relationships with many of his nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, who will forever cherish his love, wisdom, and countless memories they shared.

A memorial service will be held at Stanetsky Memorial Chapels, located at 475 Washington Street, Canton, MA, on April 13, 2025, at 2:00 pm, where we invite you to come and share some memories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Gary Sinise Foundation, https://www.garysinisefoundation.org in his memory. The Foundation provides critical support to our nation's defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need within our local communities.

Bobby’s presence in our lives was a gift, and while we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his remarkable, colorful life. His spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.