Robert F. "Bob" Masterson, 65, of Salem, passed away on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 due to complications from a long illness. Bob was born and raised in Salem and attended the Salem Public Schools.

Bob was born with a natural Irish charm, a love of laughter, a magnetic presence and a million dollar smile that would endear him to all with whom he crossed paths. He was strong, sensitive, kind, loyal, genuine, sentimental, a devoted animal lover and to those lucky enough to ever receive one of his big bear hugs, he was beautiful inside and out. From an early age, Bob was fiercely independent and lived life on his own terms. He was a free spirit who sought adventure, particularly in places where the sun loved to shine. Although Bob lived an unconventional life, he was grounded in the strong love he shared with his family. Bob loved his people and his people loved him. Bob was a hard worker. Whether it was painting or roofing a house, creating and landscaping a backyard pond, or building a playhouse in his granddaughter's backyard, Bob approached every job with perfection and derived great pleasure from a job well done.

Bob fought his illness with courage, grace and dignity and never once complained. Instead, his tenacity and eternal optimism gave him the will to forge on despite numerous setbacks. He remained grateful for the incredible care in which he received and the love and support that surrounded him.

Bob is survived and will be dearly missed by his devoted siblings, William Masterson, Pamela Masterson, Linda (Vic Van Ballenberghe) Masterson, Kathy (George) Bouffard, Deborah (John) Squires; daughter, Holly Masterson and her partner Devin Clark; granddaughter, Eden Hodgkins; former wife and forever friend, Faye Masterson and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Charlotte and William Masterson and younger brother, Edward "Ted" Masterson.

Bob's family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Care Dimensions and the many doctors, nurses and support staff who provided exceptional and compassionate care throughout his illness.

A private service will be held at a future date. Arrangements are under the direction of Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St., Salem. For additional information or his guest book, please call 978-744-0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.