Robert “Bob” Sween, 87, of Punta Gorda, Florida, passed away peacefully at home beside his beloved wife of 32 years, Deborah Sween. Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Bob lived a rich and adventurous life filled with passion, family, and joy.

Bob was a graduate of Kents Hill High School and the University of Maine at Orono, where he nurtured a lifelong love of learning and exploration. His career as a mechanical engineer at Forster Manufacturing reflected his sharp mind and hardworking spirit, but Bob’s life was defined by much more than his work.

Bob lived for many years in Maine, where he enjoyed skiing, farming and sailing. He spent many weekends at Saddleback Mtn, teaching his daughters to ski. Together with his family, he raised Scotch Highland cattle and a wide assortment of other animals. He sailed on Wilson lake and eventually all along the East Coast of the US. Above all, Bob was a sailor at heart. The sea was his sanctuary, and he spent countless cherished hours navigating the waters he loved so dearly. Whether racing, cruising, or simply feeling the wind in his sails, sailing was not just a hobby for Bob — it was a way of life that brought him immense joy and peace.

A man of many talents, Bob also delighted in acting and singing, captivating audiences with his vibrant stage presence in shows such as Pirates of Penzance with local theatre groups in Maine (and Florida?). He loved sailing, skiing, traveling the world, playing tennis, and, most of all, sharing these adventures with his family and friends.

Bob’s legacy lives on through his four daughters — Sonna Allen (Randy Allen), Kristin Alcala (Jesse Alcala), Petrah Jacques, and Meagan King (Jake King) — and his five treasured grandchildren: Cody Jacques, Jackson Jacques, Jackie Kjerstie, Monty King, and Phoebe King. Bob also leaves beloved family members Vernon Gray, Katherine Youngblood, Hank Graef (Sharon), Helen Graef, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister, Eleanor Gray, and his brothers, Larry Youngblood and David Hodgkins, as well as his parents, Harold Sween and Virginia Hodgkins. Though they have passed, their love and influence remained a constant source of strength throughout Bob’s life.

Bob’s warmth, kindness, and boundless zest for life touched everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. His spirit will live on — as steady and enduring as the tides he loved — in the hearts of his family, friends, and all whose lives he graced.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held later this summer in Maine with his family. 

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