Robert Joseph Bettencourt, a devoted husband, loving father, and proud Vietnam veteran, passed away peacefully on Tuesday September 9, 2025, at the age of 88 in his hometown of New Bedford, Massachusetts. He was born in March, 1937, to Joseph and Amelia Bettencourt.

Bob served honorably and retired from the United States Army. He deployed to Vietnam with the Fourth Infantry Division from 1969 to 1970, serving as a Infantry Combat Medic. His time in the military strengthened in him a deep sense of discipline and patriotism, traits that defined his life and inspired those around him. He loved his family, his country, and his fellow veterans.

After returning home, Bob continued his service to the country and community by working as a nurse at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Brockton as well as numerous other medical establishments. He earned a Bachelor's degree from Johnson and Wales College and became a Justice of the Peace. He was always quick to share experiences and continue learning as he took care of all his patients with compassion and loyalty as if they were his own family.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Madeline Bettencourt. They were blessed with four children Robert Bettencourt Jr., Lisa Dickerson, Becki Bettencourt (deceased), and Jim Bettencourt, and three grandchildren, John, Ava and Amelia.

A visitation to honor Bob's life will be held on Tuesday, September 23rd from 4-7 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St. New Bedford. His memorial service will at held on Wednesday September 24th at 11:15 AM at the funeral home, followed by interment with full military honors at the Massachusetts National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Vietnam Veterans of America (www.vva.org) in Bob's memory.

Bob's legacy of service, love, and resilience will live on in the hearts of his family and community. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.