Robert Joseph Derosby

WATERVILLE – Robert J. Derosby, 82, passed away at his home on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022, surrounded by loved ones.

He was born on Jan. 11, 1940, in Waterville to Roland and Aurelie Levasseur Derosby, along with brothers David and Armand Derosby.

Known to his family and friends as Bob, he joined the Marines at the age of 21, rising to the ranks of master sergeant. He served two tours in Vietnam before marrying his wife Selwa Jurdak while stationed in Paris Island, S.C. Upon returning to Maine in 1971, Bob was a Marine Corps recruiter in Aroostook County and then later in Waterville, where he formally retired from the military in December of 1981.

Bob Derosby went on to open Valor Enterprise, Inc., a small business that provided the government and military with various items, such as clocks, plaques, coins, and trophies. Finally, after 25 years, Bob retired due to ill health, though he couldn’t sit still. So he came out of retirement to work for Northeast Labs in Winslow, finally retiring for good at the age of 80.

Bob was quick-witted, good-natured, and made all those around him feel welcome and loved. He was the first in line to do anything for anyone, never accepting payment or praise. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends in his later years, driving (though he probably shouldn’t have), and buying coffees with way too much cream.

He is forever remembered and always loved by his wife and partner of almost 55 years, Sally; his four children, Craig, Stacy, Alan, and Keith, and their respective partners; and his eight grandchildren, Nicholas, Zoe, Isabel, Lucas, Juliana, Sofia, Keene, and Emilia.

A celebration of Bob’s life is planned for Feb. 19 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Joseph’s Maronite Church in Waterville.