Robert J. Ela

Robert J. Ela, age 91, passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts.  Born in his family's home in Foxborough, Massachusetts on July 16, 1930, he was the son of the late Josiah B. and Ruth W. (Mark) Ela.  He was raised in Foxborough, where he graduated from Foxborough High School with the Class of 1948.  Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country during the Korean War.

Bob married his beloved wife, Marilyn L. Gorman, on November 6, 1952, in Watertown, Massachusetts.  After the wedding, Bob moved his bride to Tower City, Michigan, where he was stationed on active duty.  After welcoming their first son, James, Bob deployed to serve overseas in occupied Germany.  Upon his return stateside and his subsequent honorable discharge from the Air Force, Bob and Marilyn made their home in Foxborough for a short time, before settling in Walpole, Massachusetts in 1956.

Bob began his civilian career with Norfolk County Mosquito Control, but later discovered his passion for helping his community on a more personal basis.  He applied for the position of patrolman with the Walpole Police Department and was hired as a full-time police officer in the early 1960s.  One of his favorite duties as an officer was working on the ambulance that was under the control of the police department for many years.  In addition to serving his local community, Bob continued to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Coast Guard Reserve in 1976.  Bob had a long and rewarding career with the Walpole Police Department, retiring in 1993.  Following his retirement, Bob took a position at Foxboro Stadium, working as a security officer and later worked with the US Government as a census taker.

In his retirement, Bob traveled the country with Marilyn, taking part in Civil War reenactments.  He looked forward to his trip to Naples, Florida each year with his family, spending countless hours fishing from the pier.  Back at home, Bob was constantly on the lookout for various antiques to add to his ever-growing collection.

Beloved husband of the late Marilyn L. (Gorman) Ela.
Loving father of James Ela and his wife, Karen, of Monroe, Connecticut and Jay Ela and his wife, Deborah, of Franklin.
Cherished grandfather of Ryan, Christopher, Michele, Jason, and Shawn; and great grandfather of Tucker, Mason, Chloe, Owen, and Cooper.
Brother of the late Jack Ela.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Bob's Life Celebration on Friday, May 13, 2022, from 4 to 7 PM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole.

Bob's funeral service will take place privately with interment in Rural Cemetery in Walpole.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Walpole Senior Center, c/o Council on Aging, 60 South Street, Walpole, MA 02081.