Robert Frederick Pistel Jr.

Robert Frederick Pistel, Jr., affectionately known as Bob, of West Barnstable, MA passed away on July 3, 2024, at the age of 83. Born on May 31, 1941, in Middletown, Connecticut, Bob graduated from Hartford University where he also played basketball before embarking on a distinguished career at the Cape Cod 5 of over 45 years. His dedication to his wife, family, church and career speaks volumes about him.

Bob leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Nancy (Blaess) Pistel, his children, Christopher Pistel and Rebecca (Pistel) Wood, along with her husband Chuck. His legacy continues through his three cherished grandchildren, Cooper, Micaela, and Addison. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Lydia (Rasch) Pistel, and his brother, John Pistel. Bob also leaves behind beloved cousins, and other family members.

Bob and Nancy moved to Harwich from Connecticut in 1971 and lived there for nearly 50 years. They raised their family and built strong roots in the community. Bob was a charter member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Harwich and served on various town commissions.

Bob's commitment and loyalty to the Cape Cod 5 was tremendous and he was respected and admired by the many people that he worked with over those years. Long after his retirement and up to the day of his death, he could be found wearing his Cape Cod 5 gear.

Bob's life was characterized by his sense of humor and his ability to make everyone around him feel immediately welcomed and valued. His chuckle was infectious, and his knack for finding joy and humor in all situations was a gift he generously shared with all who knew him. An intelligent and careful man when it came to finances, he may still have the first dollar he made, but he never hesitated to open his wallet if one of the grandkids needed a little cash. In his younger years, he liked to spend time on the water fishing or working on his latest boat project. He passed his love of the water and fishing on to both of his children.

His retirement years were spent in West Barnstable with Rebecca, Chuck, and his grandchildren where he enjoyed family vacations, trips to breweries, birthdays and holidays, and the many daily shenanigans of being part of a family. Bob served as the self-appointed “head of security” at the family home in Barnstable by making sure that no projects in the garage went unsupervised, the chickens were on the property, the dogs were accounted for, and most importantly everyone was home and safe. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family and the light-hearted spirit he brought to every day.

He loved antique cars, an occasional ice-cold adult beverage and food. Bob loved food and was not known to miss a meal; he never had a meal that he didn't like. Bob would flash the porch light to signal that it was time for dinner and be equally excited to report how delicious the meal was.

Bob imparted wisdom to his family by the way he lived, how he approached life’s challenges, and the way he treated others. His wisdom was shared through stories, laughter, and time spent together sharing thoughts and opinions. He taught without teaching and served as the cornerstone of the family. His legacy, what he was most proud of and what always made him happy will live on in his children and grandchildren. Watching and being a part of their lives as they were growing up and experienced life was something that he held deep in his heart; his pride could be seen in his smile.

Bob’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by the many lives he touched with his warmth, generosity, kindness and humor.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. There will be a private family burial.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Spaulding Rehab - Cape Cod.

https://support.spauldingrehab.org/give