Robert “Bob” J. Lammela, 83, a long-time resident of Swanzey and formerly of Keene passed peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, June 8, 2019 at Langdon Place of Keene.
Bob was born on April 19, 1936 in Fitzwilliam, son of the late Lois (Congdon) and John Lammela Jr. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Barbara (Judd). Bob and Barbara exchanged vows on June 25, 1960 at the United Church of Christ in Keene and were looking forward to their 59th wedding anniversary this June.
On June 22, 1954 he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Bob served as a radar technician and was stationed in Hawaii. He was the recipient of the U.S National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal and was honorably discharged at the rank of Airman First Class.
Bob was educated locally and graduated from Keene High School Class of 1954. He went on in his studies after military service, graduating from Keene Teachers College with a Bachelors of Arts in Education, Class of 1962. He later completed his Masters of Arts in Education from Keene State College in 1975. Education and learning was important to Bob, and he pursued various courses and studies at both Temple University and Potsdam University.
He was an educator of many students while teaching at SAU 29 in Keene and taught Chemistry and Science for twenty-five years before retiring in 1997. He was also an Adjunct Professor of Chemistry at Keene State College for fifteen years. During his early years, Bob taught in the Marlborough and Walpole Middle and High Schools as well.
Bob enjoyed everything related to science, nature and math. His witty sense of humor at life’s curious qualities was treasured by all. He enjoyed traveling to see new cultures and sites, eating out and taking cruises with family and friends. He was fortunate to travel the Mediterranean Sea, Austria and Italy. His last trip was to Hawaii just a few years ago. Bob was a WWII aviation history buff and always looked forward to the air shows that came to Keene. Even in his free time Bob was devoted to science, exploring and learning. One of his favorite trips was traveling to the top of the Mt. Washington Observatory in the winter to do summit research. He was very proud of the fact that Keene High School dedicated a yearbook to him. Bob loved spending time with his family and watching his children and grandchildren participate in competitive sports. He gave his heart and soul to helping people in whatever way he could and always thought of others rather than receiving for himself.
Mr. Lammela is survived by his wife, Barbara J. Lammela of Swanzey. His two children; Debra J. Pawlak and her husband, John of Keene and Michael S. Lammela of Swanzey. His brother, George Lammela of Oregon; four grandchildren; Ross Pawlak, Kaity Pawlak Griffett and her husband Brandon, Sam Pawlak and Ashley Lammela, and great grandson, Jack Griffett. Bob was predeceased by his brother, Richard “Dick” Lammela.
In keeping with Bob’s wishes there are no calling hours. A celebration of life service will be held in the funeral chapel on Saturday, June 15, 2019 at 11am. Burial will take place privately at Monadnock View Cemetery in Keene. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of one’s choice. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. WWW.cheshirefamilyfh.com
