Westfie
ld, Ma – Robert B. “Bob” Betts, 72, passed away surrounded by his family Monday, June 18, 2018. He was born in Natick on May 29, 1946 to Russell W. and Lynnie M. (Froggatt) Betts, relocating to Westfield in 1953. Bob’s life was dedicated to the family business, Betts Plumbing & Heating Supply Inc. (formerly Betts Piping Supply) serving as President from 1992 until 2012. Known as a pillar of the industry, tradespeople would come to him for advice on a variety of subjects. As a teenager, Bob was a member of the Boy Scouts of America as an Explorer and a member of the Order of the Arrow where he earned multiple awards for his shooting ability. Bob was active in the Masonic community as a Past Master of Mt. Moriah Lodge AF & AM, and a member of York and Scottish Rite Bodies of Springfield. He was a member of Melha Temple Shrine, and in his younger years was found at parades amusing parade-goers with wheelies on his trike. He was a Past Patron of Golden Chapter Order of Eastern Star. Bob worked in a garage, pumping gas and working on old cars. His love of cars never ended and he frequented local car shows. He enjoyed model trains, a hobby he shared with his father. He made yearly visits to the Pioneer Valley Live Steamers in Southwick and the Big E train show. Bob’s “simply marvey” approach to life was apparent in everything he did, and to everyone whose life he touched. His advice always included “just two things.” His family thanks the Westfield Police and Fire Departments for the excellent service provided him when needed, and the outstanding care given to him by Brigham and Woman’s Hospital in Boston. Bob is survived by his daughter Kimberley J. Betts of Southwick, his grandchildren, Ria and Xander Rexford of Southwick, and his childhood friend and life partner, Dale Clark of Westfield. The funeral will be Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at 11 AM at Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, followed by burial in Pine Hill Cemetery. Calling hours will be Monday, June 25, 2018 from 5-8 PM with a masonic service at 7 PM. To honor his memory, please make donations to Shiners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104, or to Western Mass Council – Boy Scouts of America, Attn: Camp Moses, 1 Arch Road, Westfield, MA 01085. firtionadams.com
