2020 at Hathaway Manor, from complications of Covid19. Given a struggle with dementia, Bob
had been living at Autumn Glen Assisted Living until recently when increased care needs
prompted a move to the nursing facility. He was previously married to Lenore Levin Piper
Bunting of Providence RI. Together, they raised three children (Lisa, Marc and Molly) living for
many years in South Dartmouth, MA. In the late 1980’s Dr. Piper moved to New Bedford, MA
making his home downtown, near the New Bedford Whaling Museum, where he enjoyed a rich
and full life.
Born in Meriden, CT, son of the late Lewis A. and Ann Z. Piper, Bob was raised in Midway,
Kentucky. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Transylvania
University, Lexington, KY then served in the military, in Alaska, as a field photographer. Bob
then studied at Syracuse University, earning both Masters and Doctorate degrees in Political
Science. He was always politically active. After retiring, he kept up his work by tutoring people
along their path to citizenship.
Dr. Piper had a successful career in higher education. During his academic career he was a
faculty member at Albion College, MI, Dean of the Graduate School of Education at Antioch
University, and Dean of Continuing Studies at S.M.U., now UMass Dartmouth, where he also
was a tenured professor in Political Science. One of his favorite classes, popular with students,
was titled, ‘The American Presidency’. He helped to create and implement many special
programs, such as ‘ The Second Half: Lifelong Learning Institute’ and ‘Spotlight’ for gifted and
talented high school students.
Dr. Piper was active in his community serving on the board of many local organizations including
The First Unitarian Church, and the Rotch-Jones-Duff House. He enjoyed gardening,
ornithology, and baking and participated in a long-standing game of bridge which he hosted in
his home for over twenty years. Bob loved the company of his friends, and family especially
cherishing his _me with grandchildren.
He is survived by his longtime and precious companion, Sandra Bilodeau with whom he shared
many interests, travel, good food and conversation. He is also survived by his children; Lisa
Piper Gilbert and husband Michael H. Gilbert of White Plains, NY, Marc Lewis Piper of
Dartmouth, MA and Molly H. Piper of Brighton, MA ; a brother, George C. Piper and wife Sally of
Lexington, KY; six grandchildren, Jacob and Owen Piper, Meira, Eden, Josiah and Elijah Gilbert;
great-grandson, Ian Piper (Jacob); and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his
brothers, William B. and David Z. Piper.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Waring-Sullivan
Home at Dartmouth, MA. Memorial donations to The First Unitarian Church of New Bedford,
https://uunewbedford.org/ or to UMass Dartmouth, https://giving.umassd.edu/ would be
appreciated. Thank you. (Notification to Lisa Piper Gilbert, 108 Longview Ave. White Plains, NY
10605.) For online tributes, please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com
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