Mr. Robert "Bob" Baccaro

Robert “Bob” Joseph Baccaro, 72, of Dalton, passed away peacefully at his home on October 9, 2025, following a brief illness. Born in New Britain, Connecticut, on June 26, 1953, Bob was the beloved son of Steven and Louise (Sokolowski) Baccaro. Bob graduated from Berlin High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), where he was a proud member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. His sharp intellect, practical nature, and curiosity led him to a long and successful career in production management, where he worked for a variety of manufacturing companies. Bob was known for his calm leadership, problem-solving mind, and his ability to bring people together to get the job done. After retiring at age 60, Bob fully embraced retirement—approaching it with the same focus, humor, and heart that he brought to everything in life. He found joy in simple pleasures: a sunny day on the golf course, a quiet morning by the water with a fishing rod, or a competitive game of cribbage among friends. Bob was also a passionate amateur meteorologist. Many people depended on Bob’s weather warnings that endeared him to all. Bob was the most prepared guy with a “go bag” for every occasion. No one ever got cold or wet with Bob around. A Life Blessed by Love and Family Bob was blessed to have shared his life with a remarkable and loving family. His wife, Lorene (Erb) Baccaro, who predeceased him in 2003, was his devoted partner and the loving mother of their children, Brian Baccaro and Brenna Baccaro. Together, they built a foundation of love, and enduring family traditions. Bob was a devoted Dad and loved his children with all of his heart. Both of his children found great spouses to build lives with—Brian with Virginia Lijewski and Brenna with Yves Philtjens. In later years, Bob found love again with his life partner of sixteen years, Carolyn Valli. Their relationship was one of deep companionship, laughter, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Together, they shared a close connection with their families—his adult children and hers, Jessica, Jacqueline, Jeanette, and James, along with their spouses, Kyle and Dan. Bob took great pride in being a grandfather, taking delight in their energy and curiosity. He was a close part of their lives despite the distance, often travelling to Belgium as “Grandpa Bob” to see Isabelle and Nora (Brenna and Yves), as well as to Oregon as “Papa” to see Simon (Jeanette and Dan). He also maintained a deep bond with his mother, Louise Baccaro, whom he lovingly called every day, and shared lifelong closeness with his sisters, Linda Baccaro and Martha Stockman (Donald). He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Elizabeth Bell Erb, his sister-in-law Lynn Erb, and an extended family of nieces, nephews, and friends. A Man of Character, Service, and Humor Bob’s life was defined by his humility, loyalty, and generosity. Bob was always the first to lend a hand—never looking for credit, just happy to help. Whether it was dropping off coffee, running out for milk and bread, or keeping an eye on things while you were away, he was the neighbor everyone wished they had. No job was ever too big or too small for Bob. His friends and family knew him as someone who could be counted on for wise advice, a dry joke, or a helping hand without hesitation. A proud volunteer with Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity, Bob lived out the organization’s mission not through words, but through consistent action and genuine care for others. Whether swinging a hammer or mentoring others, he embodied the belief that community and compassion build stronger foundations than concrete ever could. Bob loved golf and fishing, but what he loved most was the company they brought—friends who became brothers, laughter that echoed across fairways or lakesides, and stories that seemed to get better each time they were told. A loyal fan of the Yankees, Giants, and Patriots, he navigated the ups and downs of every season with humor and unwavering dedication—just as he did in life. He was known for his thoughtful advice, his love of old movies, and his ability to make everyone feel at ease. Above all, Bob had an unshakable sense of gratitude—for the people in his life, the opportunities he was given, and the beauty of ordinary days. Legacy Bob’s impact can’t be measured by titles or possessions, but by the quiet ways he shaped lives around him. He was a steady presence in a sometimes unsteady world, and those who were lucky enough to know him were better for it. His lessons—of patience, kindness, humor, and humility—will live on through the family he loved, the friendships he nurtured, and the community he helped build. Funeral Notice: Funeral services for Robert “Bob” Baccaro will be Thursday, October 16, 2025, with a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Dalton, celebrated by the Rev. Brian McGrath, Pastor. Burial will be private. Calling hours will take place on Wednesday, October 15, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Dwyer-Wellington Funeral Home in Dalton, 525 Main St., Dalton, MA 01226. Bob was big on comfort, so please dress in whatever feels right to you. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity, in care of the Dwyer-Wellington Funeral Home or on berkshirehabitat.org/donate-page.

Mr. Robert "Bob" Baccaro

June 26, 1953 - October 9, 2025