Robert W. Dwyer, 78, of Fairhaven passed away Saturday, August 17, 2024 peacefully at home, surrounded by his family after a battle with cancer.

Bob was born in Nantucket, MA in 1945, son of the late James and Evelyn (Gibbs) Dwyer. He was raised in New Bedford where he resided for most of his life.

Bob honorably served in the United States Army from 1967-1969 overseas in the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his heroism.  He was also the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, Army Commendation Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

He was formerly employed as a fish lumper alongside his father, brothers, and nephews on the New Bedford waterfront.

Bob was a beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend.  He is survived by his daughters, Lisa (Paul) Chasse, Roberta (Edward) Morris, Evelyn "Missy" (Scott) Boucher, Bobbie-Jo (Rich) Soucie, and Donna (Luis) Cruz; his siblings, James (Carolyn) Dwyer, Anna Hubbard, and Mary "Dolly" Dwyer; his former wife, Rosemary Rathburn; his 13 grandchildren, whom he adored, Tyler, Jenna, Justina, Trevor, Elissa, Kayleigh, Kelsey, Javian, Karmah, Nina, Apollo, Brandon, and Taylor; five great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

He was pre-deceased by his daughter, Lisa McGonagle, and his brothers, Paul Gibbs, Frederick Dwyer, and Walter Dwyer.

There was nothing Bob loved more than his family, a good Red Sox game, and serving his country.  He truly was a remarkable man and will be remembered by all who crossed his path.

His visitation will be held Thursday, August 22, 2024 from 4-7 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, MA.  Private burial with military honors will be held at a later date at the Massachusetts National Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory may be made to the Jimmy Fund or the Veterans Transition House .  For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.