Robert "Bob" Bettendorf

Robert "Bob" Fredric Bettendorf, a resident of Wakefield, MA passed away on Friday, August 7th, 2026, at the age of 93. He is survived by his three children, Robert Bettendorf jr., Kathleen McGinnis and MariAnne Apuzzi. He was predeceased by his wife of 67 years Margaret "Marge" who passed on September 16, 2023, and a brother Philip in 2005.

Born in New York City and raised in Queens and Long Island, Bob worked tirelessly throughout his life to better himself and support those around him. He attended the prestigious Regis High School in New York City then graduated from Hempstead High in 1951. He went on to Hofstra University and graduated with Cum Laude honors in 1955. At Hofstra he was the President and Treasurer of his fraternity and a distinguished military student. He was active in The Society of Advancement of Management, The Freshmen Steering Committee and several other clubs.

Bob met the love of his life, Marge, in the early 1950’s and they married on September 1, 1956.

Bob had already started a long and very successful career at IBM in 1955 as a salesman. In 1964, he joined the Systems Development Division and held several senior management positions before being promoted to Director in 1972. He held several additional senior Product Development and Planning positions including a prestigious international assignment from 1981 to 1984 as Director of Plans and Controls and advanced technology of the Communication Products Division in La Gaude, France. During his tenure at IBM he received numerous promotions and distinguished service awards and acknowledgements. After retiring from IBM in 1989 as a Senior Development Executive he started his own successful office ergonomics consulting business and was a pioneer in the industry.

Despite a demanding career that included numerous moves around the Northeast and Florida what Bob enjoyed most was spending time with his family. His strong family values included devotion and support to his parents Alma and Gus, his cousins and many other family members. He always managed to maintain a healthy work / life balance that included an active social life. He was fun loving, had a great sense of humor and Bob and Marge surely knew how to throw a good party! Other interests included golf, skiing, college football, gardening and especially travel. He took advantage of his time in France to explore Europe with his family and fully enjoyed his time there. Later in life Bob and Marge became avid fans of cruises with friends and family.

Bob, also sometimes affectionately called “Teddy,” has built a legacy of love and care that will be felt through generations. In addition to his children, he leaves behind five beautiful grandchildren: Elise, Juliette, Nicholas, Owen and Liam. His grandchildren meant the world to him and have been inspired by his integrity, selflessness and honesty.

Bob has left all he has touched with an undying passion and love for family.

His Funeral Mass and reception will take place at Most Blessed Sacrament, 1155 Main Street, Wakefield, MA on October 3rd at 11:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested a donation be made to the charity of your choice.