Bob Parsons

November 10, 1956 - December 23, 2015

Bob loved, and was loved, by all those around him. Bob had a flashing smile and was quick to laugh, which revealed his infectious fun-loving character. His love for life spread quickly and he made everyone in his company feel special.

Despite growing up in Connecticut and spending time throughout much of New England, it was clear that Jamestown was where he truly felt at home - on the water of Narragansett Bay with his brothers, John and Peter, always shooting for a three sport day. The boys had an active childhood - playing street sports that occasionally ended with a broken window, and spending their winters on the ski slopes or out playing pond hockey. Summers were filled with games of golf and his famous left-handed putting, tennis, swimming and biking, and if it was the hottest day of the year, it made it all the better. 

But most of all, Bob loved the water. A love that was no question inherited from his father. When not out sailing off the shores of Jamestown, he could often be found on his porch overlooking Sheffield Cove - sun-soaked and salt in his hair - with a Mt. Gay and tonic at hand, strumming on his guitar. This is, without a doubt, the quintessential image of Bob. An enthusiastic fan of Grateful Dead, he attended many concerts with his brothers (and later with his boys) and was never shy about his awkward, yet creative dance moves. His unique sense of style was often described as sartorial excellence or vintage - like his duct taped ski pants or his year-round choice of footwear - flip flops.

A proud father, Bob held an eternity of love for his family, especially his three boys - Ben, Sam and Matt. The Bob Shop, as they named him, knew how to make light out of any situation. Every day was filled with fun and excitement when you were with Bob, enjoying the simple things in life and keeping a sense of humor close at hand.  

Most recently, Bob enjoyed working at Shem Creek Capital with his business partner, Scott Goldberg, for whom he had the highest regard. 

A straightforward kind of guy, Bob was never afraid to ask the hard questions - there was no beating around the bush. He was stoic, a fighter - especially through his battle with cancer. With the help of his loving wife, Lisa, he kept his spirits high even through the worst of it all. Bob was a man of loyalty, integrity, curiosity and intelligence. He will be remembered for so many things, among them his loving charm, vivid and engaging conversations, and living life with gusto. His family and friends were most important to him and will miss him dearly. 

“Remember one thing. That you should not leave this earth

until you have made it a little more beautiful, a little lovelier, a little more loving.”

 - OSHO

Anyone who knew him knows that he accomplished this, and more.