Stonington, Maine - Robert "Bob" Williams passed away October 5, 2025, at home with his family. He was born March 27, 1937, to Francis and Katherine "May" Whitman Williams.

Robert grew up in Burnt Cove with brother, Donald and sister Elaine "Dembowski." He worked with his father, "The Ice Man" and cutting wood. It was when he met Edna Eaton of Little Deer Isle, the mother of his 6 children, and her brothers, who introduced lobstering to him. He was 18 when he started his career having his first boat built by Arno Day and his last boat, a John's Bay 38 built by Peter Kass. He spent 70 years lobstering, helping young and old, always encouraging, teaching and mentoring. Robert spent many years with the Maine Lobstermen's Association as a director. He was instrumental in the Burnt Cove Church renovations, especially the steeple. Robert followed the family tradition of being the Jr. Prom Caller, for Deer Isle-Stonington High School, started by his grandfather, Malcolm Williams continued with Francis and May Williams. Bob met the love of his life, Diane Berlew, in 1979 on a blind date at the Maine Fishermen's Forum. With her five children, Chris, Lucinda, Katy, Michele and Adam and Bob's six, they blended their families with love and joy. They built a home together in Burnt Cove, where they both shared the rest of their years together.

Robert is survived by his oldest son, John and wife, Judy, of Stonington; grandsons, Mark and Rob; son, James of Bangor; daughter, Shelley Eaton of St. Augustine, FL; granddaughter, Michelle; daughter, Serena Stevens and husband, Andrew; daughter, Sherri Williams; grandsons, Chris and James; granddaughter, Emily; and first born granddaughter, Khristy of Homer, AK; multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a special brother-in-law and friend, Sidney Eaton; and countless nieces, nephews, and beloved cousins. He was predeceased by his wife, Diane, in April; a daughter, Sheila Larrabee, in 1999; his brother, Donald Williams; and brother-in-law, David Dembowski.

There will be a private burial this winter and a celebration of life in summer 2026. Condolences may be expressed at jordanfernald.com.