Robert F Kimball

Robert Frank Kimball (“Bob”) passed away after a short battle with cancer of the kidney on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. Born on January 9th, 1933, he was the only child of the late Frank Viall Kimball and Margaret (Marcroft) Kimball. Bob lived in Wakefield since 1961.

Bob grew up in the Greenwood section of Warwick and was a proud graduate of Cranston High School, class of 1951. He completed his army service with a rank of captain and met one of his best friends at Fort Benning, “Uncle” Harrie Burdan, whom he remained strong friends with until his passing earlier this year. Bob went to the University of RI and majored initially in business but returned to complete his credentials as a secondary school history/geography teacher.

Narragansett was his home for teaching and here he met many friends, both colleagues and students. Bob loved keeping his connections going and he deeply valued the friendships he made over the years. Old students often stopped by to say hello, drop off fresh fish from their boat, share their photography or just ask his advice.

He had many interests and hobbies, including photography, Model A cars, history, “tinkering” in the garage, dispensing advice and handing out canes with ice tips to other “creaky” people he met in his travels.

Bob was predeceased by his parents and his first wife, Joan Hendricks Kimball (1933-1959). He is survived by his wife, Anne Wilkinson Kimball and his four children, Lynn Finocchiaro (Bill) of North Kingstown, Kim (North Kingstown), Robert (“Toby”) and his wife Michele of East Greenwich and Alexander of Wakefield. Additionally he has nine grandchildren who he loved dearly: Audrey and Brooke Finocchiaro, Matthew, Andrew, Freddy, Molly, Jodalene, Esmeralda and Isabella Kimball.

The family wishes to thank Hope Hospice for their amazing and compassionate care.

At this time, no services are planned. To honor Bob’s memory, share a laugh with those you love, spend time with hobbies you enjoy and think of him when you take a walk on the sea wall or at Sand Hill Cove. Donations in his memory are welcomed for: Hope Hospice, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904 or for the Shriners, 1 Rhodes Place, Cranston, RI 02905.