1940 – 2012

LEWISTON — Robert L. “Bob” Despres, 72, passed away Saturday, Dec. 8, surrounded by family and friends, at d’Youville Pavilion, after losing his battle with cancer.

Bob was born in Lewiston on Feb. 8, 1940, the eldest son of Lucien G. and Clara A. Allen Despres. He attended local schools and graduated from the University of Maine at Orono in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

He began his working career at International Paper Co. in Jay and remained in the pulp and paper industry until he retired in late 1999. Over the years he worked for three consulting engineering firms and later as a self-employed contract engineer. Bob was a registered professional engineer in Maine and Massachusetts. During the later years he developed and wrote a few specialized software programs to expeditiously deal with some common and repetitive engineering problems.

From his early teens to the end of his life, Bob was an avid amateur photographer who loved to make images from capture to finished print. When digital imaging came into its own, he embraced it and learned its characteristics with enthusiasm. His love of photography never waned and he was always eager to share his knowledge with anyone who asked. He took great joy in mentoring people, especially the two that went on to become successful professional photographers.

Late in life, he had the honor and privilege to be “adopted” as a “pépére” to his friend’s two lovely daughters, Elly and Sadie, who quickly became the loves of his life. Although he never married, Bob was blessed with a small circle of close friends and their families, whom he loved dearly. He was always eager to help them, especially with their computer and photographic issues. In his last years he hoped to pass on being right with our Lord and having contributed something positive.

He is survived by two godchildren and several cousins.

Bob was predeceased by his parents; and younger brother, Richard.

Condolences and donations may be accessed online at www.albert-burpee.com.

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