Obituary of Robert O. Andrews

Robert O. Andrews, 88, passed away peacefully at his home on Green Street on Tuesday morning, September 16, 2025. Born on June 13, 1937, Robert, a lifelong resident of Woburn, was the son of Leon G. and Dorothy E. (Frizzell) Andrews. He lived a life marked by devotion to family, service to his community, and a love of the outdoors.

He attended Thompson Academy, a farm and trade school in Boston Harbor—an experience that shaped his strong work ethic and deep appreciation for practical skills. A proud Mason and Shriner, Robert dedicated much of his life to serving others. Recently, he joyfully celebrated 50 years as a member of Mt. Horeb Lodge in Woburn, a milestone reflecting his commitment to fellowship, service, and tradition.
 

Bob served in the U.S. Army for “2 years, 8 months, 11 day, and 7 hours” stationed in Alaska where he built enduring friendships and memories. Returning home, he worked for the City of Woburn with his Dad, prior to finding his true passion as the City’s Tree Warden. After 37 years, he retired as a Highway Foreman.

As a volunteer for the Mass Wildlife Angler Education program, he taught myriad children to fish sharing his passion for the outdoors. He was especially proud of hosting fishing clinics for veterans and speaking at Veteran’s Day assemblies at Tyngsborough Middle School, where his words resonated deeply with young people.

On January 26, 1963, Robert married his neighbor and best friend, Veronica McGowan, at St. Joseph’s Church in Woburn. Together, they shared 60 wonderful years until Veronica’s passing in 2022. They built a family rooted in love, laughter, and faith.

Bob was the beloved father of D. Andrews and her partner Rodney Brown of East Hampton, CT; Mary Ann Small and her husband Richard of Randolph, MA; Lesley Andrews Bennett and her husband Keith of Woburn; Robert “Bobby” E. Andrews of Woburn; and Sara “Tilli” Andrews-Wojtczak and her husband Tomasz Wojtczak of Westford, MA. He was the beloved grandfather of Grace and Emily Small of Randolph, and Theo Wojtczak of Westford, who brought him immeasurable joy.

One of Bob’s greatest moments was spending time with his family at Higgins Beach in Scarborough, Maine. He loved fly-fishing for stripers in the estuary, searching for sand dollars along the shore, and watching his grandchildren laugh and play in the waves.

Bob found joy in simple, daily routines. Every afternoon at 4 p.m., he could be found in his “office” at the Dunkin’ Donuts at four corners, chatting with friends and keeping his finger on the pulse of the City of Woburn.

Robert enjoyed travel, fishing, and supporting those who served. His legacy is one of generosity, dedication, and love of community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visiting hours will be at the Graham Funeral Home, 3 Arlington Rd., Woburn on Friday, September 19 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. with a Masonic Service at 6:45 p.m.  A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at the Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, 185 Lake Street (off Route 1 South) in Peabody on Saturday, September 20 at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, because flowers should grow outdoors, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02114.(www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org)