Obituary of Robert F DiFelice

Robert F. DiFelice, 67, of Tewksbury, a retired plumber and teacher, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 10, 2025.  Bob was born in Boston and was one of four children of Cesideo and Lorena DiFelice. He grew up in Burlington, where he was educated before enlisting in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17 during the Vietnam War. He proudly served as a Machinist Mate Apprentice aboard the USS Basilone (DD824), a destroyer. After serving for two years, he was discharged in February 1976 and was honored with the National Defense Service Medal. Bob was proud to have served his country and was a dedicated member of the USS Basilone crew.

Following his military service, Bob worked as a plumber. Within just a few years, he established his own business, Bob DiFelice Plumbing and Heating, serving both residential and commercial clients. His reputation for being extremely knowledgeable and skilled earned him loyal customers, some of whom had been with him for over 30 years, and many were multi-generational. Bob also served as the Plumbing Inspector for the Town of Burlington for several years.

In the late 1980s through the early 2000s, Bob shared his expertise as a teacher at Shawsheen Technical High School in Billerica, where he taught plumbing and heating. He loved mentoring his students, inspiring them to succeed in the trade, and particularly enjoyed working with them on construction projects outside the classroom. Bob treated his students with respect, holding them to high standards to prepare them for the workforce. His engaging teaching style, sense of humor, and ability to motivate his students made him beloved by all who knew him. He later finished his teaching career at Nashoba Technical High School.

Beyond his professional life, Bob was known for his kindness and generosity. He was always ready to lend a hand, whether through his time, skills, or simply offering a listening ear. As a father, he was a mentor and teacher to his two sons, passing on valuable life lessons and practical skills. Whether it was plumbing, carpentry, or problem-solving, Bob made sure they learned the skills that would serve them throughout their lives.

Bob cherished the time spent with his family at the family cottage on Thomas Pond in Raymond, Maine. His sons fondly remember the many days spent swimming, boating, and enjoying campfires together. Bob took great joy in pulling them—and their friends—on tubes behind the boat, making them hold on for dear life while he skillfully tossed them through the water. He also enjoyed quiet moments tinkering on various projects or relaxing on the porch, watching the kids play or simply taking in the serene lake views.

Another cherished spot for Bob was “The Camp” at Pine Acres Campground in Raymond, New Hampshire. The location offered countless activities for both kids and adults, and Bob was always in motion, whether working, tinkering, or entertaining his friends and family.

One of Bob’s trademarks was his garage, which he turned into a true “man cave.” After suffering a back injury in his 50s, he retired early and made the garage his sanctuary. It was fully equipped with heat, air conditioning, a bathroom, and even a computer. His close friends and family, including Bob Keyser, Jim Peters, Sonny Dirring, and many others, would often gather in the garage to work on projects or simply relax and chat. No matter the weather, Bob and his friends shared stories, laughter, and camaraderie in that special place.

Bob's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was a man of great skill, deep kindness, and unwavering generosity. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

Bob was the beloved husband of 30 years of Allison (Coppola) DiFelice who was there to support him.  He was the proud father of Austin DiFelice & his wife Mikayla of Dracut and Matthew DiFelice & his wife Sarah of Sandown, NH.  He was the brother of C. Andrew DiFelice of Tewksbury, Charles DiFelice of Florida, and Lorena Morneweck of North Carolina.  He was a grand dad to his grand dogs Nina, Dory, Boomer, Finley, Leo, and Dex.  Bob was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bob’s funeral services will be private. There will be a celebration of life at the family's home on January 20, at 4 PM.  Those who would like to remember and honor Bob may make donations to Children’s Hospital Trust, www.childrenshospital.org, 401 Park Drive, Suite 602, Boston, MA 02215.  Arrangements by the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, Burlington.  For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net