She was born December 29, 1936, in Quincy, MA to Robert and Gertrude Mattson. She survived her younger brother, William. Before retiring to Plymouth, her father worked at the Quincy ship yard. Her mother enjoyed a long career at Buttner’s department store in downtown Plymouth.
Roberta was kind-hearted and loving, remarkable in many ways. In high school she worked at a local greeting card store and volunteered as a “candy striper” at Quincy City Hospital. She put herself through nursing school and then began a long career in the care of others as a “working mom.” She worked at Quincy City Hospital, South Shore Hospital and numerous nursing homes.
Roberta met her future husband, Frederick Richard Rowell, in her teens. She promised to marry Fred after he completed his service in the U.S. Army and they wed in 1957.
Roberta was a former member of the Bourne Women’s Club and she attended Swift Memorial United Methodist Church. Her interests included gardening, antiquing, watercolor painting, photography, reading and writing short stories. She traveled the world with Fred and enjoyed the company of her many friends. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family who are left with endless memories of her unique personality, infectious laugh, and beloved chocolate martinis.
Roberta – affectionately known as “Bobo” to her family and closest friends - is survived by her husband, Fred; son David and his spouse, Erin; daughter Diane and her spouse Jerald; son Steven; and six grandchildren Tessa, Bennett, Alanah, Madison her spouse Connor; Alexandra, Samantha; and one great-grandchild Harlow.
A wake will be held from 6 - 9 PM on Wednesday, December 1st, at the Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home in Sandwich, MA (154 Route 6A). Her burial will take place at 2pm on December 2nd at the U.S. National Cemetery in Bourne, MA.
In lieu of flowers please donate in Robert's "Bobo" name to; Cranberry Hospice, 36 Cordage Park Cir, Plymouth, MA 02360.
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