WESTFIELD – Robert “Bob” Arlan Rising, aged 96, (1928-2025) passed away peacefully on May 7th, 2025. Born on December 13th, 1928, in Orange, 
Massachusetts, Robert lived a life that was dedicated to professional integrity, service to his country, and devotion to his family.
Robert had a passion for aviation and first pursued it as a teenager by volunteering as a plane spotter during WWII. Robert then enlisted in the United States Air Force and spent 21 years in active duty. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1969 with the rank of Master Sargeant. Robert’s post-military career was spent at Digital Equipment Corporation. During this time, he earned an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration and became a certified member of the American Production and Inventory Control Society.
Outside of work, Robert had a creative side and was a talented wood worker and carver. He was a founding member of the Chip-Away Carver’s Club at the West Springfield Senior Center. As a longtime member of the First Congregational Church in Westfield, Robert was honored when a large-scale replica of his carving of the church was featured in the parade celebrating the 250th anniversary of Westfield.
Robert was predeceased by his wife of nearly 50 years, Dolores (Eldridge) Rising, along with his brother, John F. Rising, and his sister, Norma Robichaud. He is survived by his sister, Joyce Taylor, his children, Dana Rising, Christopher (Janice) Rising and Kathleen (Joseph) Manna, his grandchildren, Rosemary, Lillian, and Julia Manna, and his step-grandchildren, Paul, John, and Peter Shipman.
A memorial service celebrating Robert’s life will take place at the First Congregational Church in Westfield on June 9th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the First Congregational Church, 18 Broad Street, Westfield, MA 01085.
