ROCKLAND — Robert E. Rackliff, 75, passed away, Sunday, May 4, 2025 at his home in Rockland.

He was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Estelle L. (Wood) Rackliff; his daughter Amy E. Rackliff; and his companion, Jack, the Jack Russell Terrier; his brother Ralph Rackliff (Donna); sisters Linda Allan (Carty), Judy Dewalt, Janet Benner; and his grandson Ashton Duke.

He is survived by his children, Ann Gergis (George) of Milford, Massachusetts, Ben Rackliff (fiancée Kristen) of Jefferson, Patricia Sawyer of Bailey, North Carolina; his sister Marianne Fowler (Bill) of Jefferson; brothers Donny Rackliff (Grace) of Burnham, Larry Rackliff of Belfast; nine grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, coworkers, and friends who will all miss him deeply.

Robert "Bob" Rackliff was born in Rockland, on November 23, 1949. One of eight siblings, Bob grew up in a family that moved frequently, making it difficult to settle in one school or make lasting childhood friendships. But from a young age, Bob learned resilience and hard work, qualities that defined his entire life.

At just nine years old, he began working alongside his father on the farm, setting the foundation for a lifelong passion for hard work, building, crafting, and creating. For 11 years, Bob cut wood, a dangerous job, especially in the days before modern safety tools and technology. Still, he thrived. He became so skilled that he could predict where a tree would land within an inch.

His love for wood never faded. Bob transitioned into construction, where he spent over four decades as a master craftsman. Whether he was building an entire home or handcrafting kitchen cabinets, custom furniture, or intricate wood details, Bob poured 100%, and then some, into everything he touched. His daughter, Amy, joined him, and it was one of his greatest joys in life to work alongside her. Honest, meticulous, and immensely talented, Bob was the definition of "top shelf."

Beyond his unmatched skills, Bob had a brilliant mind and a deep respect for tradition and history. He had quick wit, always ready with a new joke, and a quiet depth that came through in his favorite things. He loved hunting, fishing, four-wheeling, taking his truck through the car wash, and watching movies-his favorite being "It's a Wonderful Life." He found comfort in his home with his best friend, Estelle, and their pet animals. He also enjoyed hot coffee (7 creams, 7 sugars), enjoyed a good pour of 777, and was always up for a Johnny Cash song-especially Hurt.

Bob was many things: a builder, a provider, a storyteller, and a man who knew the value of a job done right. But more than anything, he was deeply loved, and he will be dearly missed.

Family and friends are invited to visit Friday, May 30, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County, P.O. Box 1294, Rockland, Maine 04841.

To share a memory or condolence with the Rackliff family, please visit their Book of Memoires at www.bchfh.com.