Robert Louis Fanaras, of Haverhill, passed away peacefully Aug. 10, several days after celebrating his 80th birthday.
He was born in Haverhill Aug. 5, 1936, and has been a lifelong resident of the city. Fanaras was the husband of Natalie (Sarto) Fanaras, whom they shared almost 60 years of marriage. He worked as a sales and purchasing manager in the electronics industry for many years until his retirement. That work included testing, certifying and supplying components for space shuttles, space stations and the defense industry. He was a great basketball player when he was young, once scoring more than 50 points in a game. His love of basketball, football, baseball and horse racing continued all his life. He was also passionate about music and movies. He was often referred to as the “mayor” of places like the gym or rehab facilities he was in over the past few years. He endured many medical issues for the last 20 years of his life yet they never broke his spirit or his will.
His surviving family members in addition to his wife include his sons, Mark A. Fanaras of Bradford and Andrew R. Fanaras of Haverhill; grandchildren, Alicia Fanaras, Mark Nathan Fanaras and Adam Fanaras all of Bradford; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and an aunt. He was predeceased by his mother Rose Gallo, stepfather Nicholas Gallo and sister Barbara Trainor.
Visiting hours are Tuesday, Aug. 16, at Driscoll Funeral Home, 309 South Main St., Bradford, from 4 to 8 p.m. Catholic Funeral Rites will be offered graveside Friday morning, Aug. 19, 11 a.m., in St. Patrick Cemetery, North Broadway, Haverhill. Reception follows at Olivia’s Restaurant, Haverhill.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the Robert L. Fanaras Memorial Trust c/o of Haverhill Bank, 180 Merrimack Street, Haverhill, MA 01830 or at any branch. The funds will be used to benefit the children of the Haverhill Boys and Girls Club.