ARGYLE TOWNSHIP – Robert J. Taylor, 77, died quietly Tuesday night, Dec. 25, 2008, at his home in Sun City, Fla. Bob was born March 12, 1931, in Portland, the son of Robert and Evelyn. He graduated from Falmouth High School, and joined the Merchant Marines in 1947 for a brief period before enlisting in the Air Force in 1949. An air traffic controller, Bob was instrumental in developing the Soul airport during the Korean War, saving countless lives while under enemy fire and is a decorated “lifer,” retiring in 1969 as a technical sergeant after 20 years of service. Bob began the legendary Taylor’s Bait shortly after retiring from the Air Force. With the help of his family, Bob built and ran Taylor Bait Farms for more than 30 years. He survived open heart surgery, prostate cancer, bone cancer and diabetes, and has outlived three wives, Ruby Ann Orcutt, Blanche Fickett and finally Linda McGraw, with whom he thought to spend the rest of his life. So much so that he and Linda “retired” again, sold the bait business and started a residential subdivision, Bond Creek Estates, Aurora, N.C. When Linda passed away unexpectedly in 2001, Bob sold the subdivision and started yet another new business, Taylor Properties, at age 71. He spent his days buying and renovating dilapidated houses in Maine. In 2005, Bob relocated to Sun City, Fla., and found a welcoming community of new friends in a warmer climate. A longtime friend of Bill W. since April 12, 1974; Bob loved life and danced as if no one were looking; lived life his way and enjoyed every minute of it. His gracious spirit, love of humor, and moments of humility were traits that defined him and endeared him to many. He died with dignity where he always wanted, at home. He will be missed by us all, son, Michael; daughter, Kat; Linda’s daughter, Laurie; and his grandchildren, Michael Jr. and Ryan Taylor, and Brianna and Lindsie March. Whoever met Bob never forgot him. Florida memorial services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 5, at Sun City Center Funeral Home, 1851 Rickenbacker Drive, Sun City Center, Fla. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor, with the Rev. Dr. Rex H. Garrett, director of chaplaincy services at Eastern Maine Medical Center, officiating. Those wishing to remember Robert may make gifts in his memory to a fund that benefits CancerCare of Maine, The Linda Taylor Endowment Fund, care of Healthcare Charities, P.O. Box 931, Bangor, ME 04402.
ROBERT JOSEPH TAYLOR JR.
