SOUTH PARIS — Robert T. Jackson, 80, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 19, at Market Square Health Care Center after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born in Bridgeport, Conn., on July 14, 1931, the son of Thomas and Helen Keblitis Jackson.

On April 7, 1951, he married Bernadine Petroski and they raised four children in Connecticut. Bob was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed family gatherings and lots of good food. Papa Bear will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

He was employed with Vitramon for 10 years, then at the Burndy Corp. He later owned and managed a Radio Shack in Wilton, Conn. Bob and his wife also owned a Wishing Well Card & Gift shop in Monroe, Conn.

In 1978, he and his wife moved to Maine. He semi-retired in 1985 from Janco and briefly worked at Ashtons in Norway. Bob and Bernadine were married for 53 years before the love of his life passed away in May, 2004.

Later in life, Bob met Marguerite Johnson, who helped him through some tough times. They enjoyed dinning out, movies, plays, trips, and enjoying the company of many people. Marguerite’s companionship and love was a healing touch that gave him new life.

Bob is survived by his four children, Dianne Waterhouse and her husband, Phillip, of West Paris, Robert Jackson Jr. of Sanford, Kathy Jackson of West Paris and Patti Karavitis and her husband, Demetrios, of Fairfield, Conn.; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Maureen Dorio, of Huntington, Conn.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his wife, Bernadine.

The family would like to thank all those that took part in his care at Market Square Health Care Center to make his final days more comfortable.

On-line condolences may be shared with his family at www.chandlerfunerals.com.