ROXBURY—Robert Ernest Bevans II, “Cowboy Bob,” 83 of Roxbury, father of local real estate broker, Bonnie Sue Bevans, owner of BRealEstate.net, LLC, passed away on July 23, 2024, at home surrounded by the love and support of his wife, Stacey, family members, and devoted friends.
Born on March 6, 1941, in Bridgeport, he spent his life in Connecticut. His long-standing ties to Roxbury fostered deep connections to the people in his life. He was considered a mentor and teacher to many and made a lasting impression on all who met him.
Never shy about expressing his opinion, people who engaged Bob in conversation knew where he stood on various topics. That said, he was also a sensitive soul who understood when someone needed support.
As a natural teacher, he taught people of all ages “how to,” whether it was greasing a tractor, taking down a tree, learning to ski, or any form of carpentry. Bob made sure you had the training and skills needed to do it right.
Bob’s presence gave people the feeling that he was invincible, and his kids thought he was “Superman.” This came from his long history as a self-made man. His life experiences afforded him a huge toolbox of problem-solving skills that he applied to everything he was involved with.
He worked as a supervisor and foreman for Bartlett Tree Experts, a coin machine repairman for Brandt Manufacturing, and owned Tree Boss land clearing and Bevans Tool & Muscle. He was proud of the 30-plus years he spent as a ski instructor at Mohawk Mountain.
He was a craftsman who was involved with many building projects including new construction, remodeling, and renovating historic structures throughout New England, as well as boat building. He loved the challenge of solving a problem. In later years, Bob enjoyed working on his own property and he was a good neighbor when people needed help. He had lasting relationships with the Island of Antigua, where two of his best friends reside. After Hurricane Hugo, Bob helped rebuild a grocery store and a fishing boat for his friends on the Island.
Bob was a devoted husband and father. Besides his wife, Stacey, Bob is survived by his sister Ruth Hoff, his brother Bill, and his children; Bonnie Sue Bevans, Brian Bevans (Maiah), Gary Bevans (Susan McCormack), Camille Bevans, Tessa Bevans (Michael Giapponi), Michelle Bevans, Lakshmi Bevans, and his grandchildren; Natasha Fisher (Jacob), Mariah Forstmann, (Justin), Zadyekiel Bevans, Isabella Bevans, Benjamin Bevans, Monk Bevans, Elaina Bevans, and Ginny Jean Giapponi.
Bob was predeceased by his infant son Robert, ex-wife Shirley, brother Russ, and his parents Ada and Ernest. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Adiada.
A Memorial Service is planned at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17 at Christ Episcopal Church, 4 Weller’s Bridge Rd., Roxbury. Cowboy hats are encouraged.
Donations in Bob’s memory can be made to the following organizations: Roxbury Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 203, Roxbury, 06783; Roxbury Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 94, Roxbury, 06783, and the Roxbury Land Trust, P.O. Box 51, Roxbury, 06783.
