Robert "Bob" Splaine, 86, of Boothbay Harbor Maine, passed away peacefully on Jan. 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, ingenuity and dedication.

He was born on July 25, 1938, in Lyons Gate, a small village in Dorset, England, son of Rose and Robert Splaine.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Christine; his son, John (Peggy); and his cherished grandson, Cleyton. He was preceded in death by his sister Betty Cook.

Having family nearby brought immense joy to Bob’s life, especially his grandson Cleyton. From their days riding matching tractors to later discussions about world issues, college searches and their mutual love of cars, Bob treasured their time together. Cleyton never tired of hearing stories about Bob’s early years as a rally driver in England. He shared a close bond with Peggy, whom he considered a daughter.

A consulting aerospace engineer until his passing, Bob’s career took him around the globe designing jet engine test cells for companies and governments. He was the founder and CEO of Turbomotive Incorporated in Connecticut, where Christine and John joined him in building a thriving business. Renowned for his unique skill set, Bob was highly sought after in his field and earned numerous awards throughout his career.

Bob was immensely proud to have become an American citizen after moving to the United States with Christine and John in the 1970s. Their journey began with a love story in England when Bob met Christine at church bingo and led them to New York, Arizona, and Connecticut before discovering their beloved Boothbay Harbor. In Boothbay Harbor, Bob and Christine purchased the "Pilman House" on Orne’s Hill, which they lovingly expanded over the years. He could often be found tending to his property or helping neighbors with his legendary garage full of tools. A skilled handyman with a knack for fixing anything—much to Christine’s chagrin when it came to new appliances—Bob’s resourcefulness was well-known.

"Captain Bob," as he was affectionately called, loved the water and spent countless hours enjoying the Harbor from his boats. An animal lover fluent in "cat," he was adored by his feline companions Kitty, Stormy, Sasha and Missing Link. It was a little-known fact that Bob kept trim by secretly feeding his son John's dog, Winslow, under the table during family dinners.

Never at a loss for words, Bob served his community with passion as a member of both the Planning and Select Board. He and Christine were faithful parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Peace in Boothbay Harbor. Over the years, Bob contributed to the church as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, Altar Server, Organist, Soundman, and all-around repairman. They also organized the Seder for many years.

Friends are welcome to join the family for a time of visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 6 at Hall Funeral Home, 975 Wiscasset Road, Boothbay. The Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 7 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, 82 Atlantic Avenue, Boothbay Harbor, followed by a reception at the church. Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Home Boothbay.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s name to the Boothbay Region Student Aid Fund. Donations can be made online at www.BRSAF.org or by sending a check to BRSAF, P.O. Box 293, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hall Funeral Home, Boothbay. To share a condolence or story with the family, please visit Bob’s Book of Memories at wwww.hallfuneralhomes.com