Bob Vanstone, 89, died at home on September 26, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with his daughters, Gail and Marianne by his side.
Born and raised in New Bedford, MA, he was an acclaimed and groundbreaking mechanical engineer, devising and furthering the use of aluminum in aerial fire engine ladder construction which became the bulk of his esteemed career.
Bob enjoyed a few hobbies but his passion was his wooden boat, “DUTCHMAN”, which he lovingly maintained for 56 years. From fishing and lobstering in Buzzard’s Bay to cocktail cruises on the rivers and canals of Fort Lauderdale, “DUTCHMAN” was his pride and joy, and ultimately was donated to a wooden boat restoration specialist for their collection.
Bob spent his last few years enjoying the view from his waterfront condo, an avid boat enthusiast to the end.
