GARDNER, Massachusetts — Robert "Bob" Whiting Gifford II, 73, of Gardner, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at his home, with his wife by his side. Born in Rockland, Maine, on November 19, 1952, he was the son of the late Robert and Gloria (Clifford) Gifford. Bob was a proud graduate of Rockland High School, in Maine, Class of 1971. He led a rich, multi-faceted life. 

In the 1980s Bob was a member of three well-known Boston bands, The Rings, The Bamboo Gang, and The Wicker Men as lead vocalist, bassist, and songwriter. The Rings performed opening acts for The Pretenders, Squeeze, and Blue Öyster Cult. He was also an independent filmmaker, recently celebrating the release of his long-awaited film Captain Dymo vs The Cow Master. His artistry in sound design earned international recognition through his work on the animated documentary Ball Lightning. For 27 years Bob taught at AIB and Lesley Art + Design in both the Film and Animation programs, serving as a sound specialist and teaching courses ranging from Audio Production and Design to Animation Seminars. Throughout his career, he inspired generations of students to understand the essential role that sound plays in storytelling, helping them develop both technical skills and artistic vision.

Bob was a parishioner of the Unitarian Universalist Church in Gardner, Massachusetts. He loved reading, meeting people and getting to know them, and spending time with his family and friends. Known as a true "Mr. Fix-It," he was a talented carpenter and gifted craftsman who had a remarkable ability to build, repair, and create just about anything. His curiosity, creative spirit, and genuine interest in others were evident throughout his life. Above all, Bob will be remembered for his kind heart, remarkable talents, and the love he shared with his family, friends, students, and community.

Robert is survived by his wife, Melody R. Fortier of Gardner; three sons, Peter King of Gardner, David King and his wife Kacey Thompson of Austin, Texas, and Danny King and his wife Jess King, of Boston; two grandchildren, Craig King and Daphney King; two brothers, Steven Gifford and his wife Mary of Maine, and Billy Gifford and his wife Mary Margaret of Maine; two sisters, Gloria Jean Murray and her husband Don of Braintree, and Cindy Bryant and her husband Sheldon of Maine; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Services will be announced and held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ACLU, One Center Plz, Ste. 850, Boston, MA 02180. Please reference in memory of Robert W. Gifford II.