WARREN – Robert I. “Bob” Blackman, 63, died unexpectedly Oct. 29, 2016, at his home.

Born in Rockland on Jan. 2, 1953, he was the son of Irving W. and Frances Marsh Blackman. Educated in local schools, Bob was a 1971 graduate of Rockland District High School.

Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he received extensive training as a weapons mechanic. Upon his honorable discharge from the Air Force, he returned to the Midcoast and made his home in Owls Head.

Bob spent his career as a truck driver, working many years for George C. Hall & Sons.

He loved being outdoors, fishing, keeping gardens and spending time at the pond he built in his backyard. After stocking that pond with goldfish, Bob would often sit at water's edge and talk to them. In his younger years, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle, repairing cars and tinkering on his Corvair.

A quiet and private person, Bob was always reading something. He was a great story-teller, often telling the same story.

Bob is survived by his companion, Lois “Lodie” Grierson of Warren; one son, Ryan Blackman of Owls Head; three brothers, Edward “Ted” Blackman and his wife, Sharon, of Lisbon Falls, Donald “Donny” Blackman and his companion, Cassi Dean, of Owls Head, and Chuck Blackman and his wife, Pam, of Topsham; his companion's daughter, Susan and her husband, Terry, and their daughter, Rebecca Fogg, all of Warren; several nieces and nephews, as well as many other extended family members.

A private graveside will be held at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Augusta.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the veterans mental health organization of choice.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.