Robert H. Walpole III, known as Bob, Robin or BW and loved by so many has passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the age of 78.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Born on January 22, 1948, in San Francisco, California, Bob was the son of the late Robert H. Walpole II and Florence Hughes Walpole. From a young age, music lived in his soul, shaping a life that would be anything but ordinary. A true artist at heart, he spent decades playing in bands, traveling across the country from the California coast to New York’s Southern Tier and Finger Lakes, sharing his passion and energy with everyone lucky enough to hear him play. In his younger years in California, Bob fell in love with the ocean and the rhythm of surfing, eventually becoming a judge at surfing competitions throughout the San Diego area. That same creative spirit carried into his work as a graphic designer and into every corner of his life. Whether through music, art, or conversation, Bob had a way of leaving a lasting impression.
He was never a “typical” father—he was the cool dad, the rockstar dad, the surfer dad. While some dads read bedtime stories, Bob sang them. But most importantly, taught his children to put a little extra “oomph” into life. He was thoughtful, kind, endlessly talented, and effortlessly funny. He loved deeply and freely, and his warmth drew people in wherever he went. Bob had a gift for connection. He made friends everywhere, and to each person, he was something uniquely special—a father, son, brother, grandfather, uncle, bandmate, coworker, and friend. No matter the role he played, those who knew him can all agree: we were incredibly lucky to love and be loved by him. He will be remembered not only for his music and creativity, but for his big heart and his unforgettable, long, warm hugs—hugs that will be missed more than words can express.
Bob is survived by his children: Ian (Jacqueline) Walpole of Pendleton, NY; Kymberly (Jeff) McCarthy of Bloomfield; and Emily (Tyler) Repka of Clarence, NY. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Evan, Liam, Vivian, Elise, Genevieve, Natalie, and Audrey. He leaves behind his sisters, Deborah (Steve) Perkins of Texas and Elizabeth Brown of Washington state, as well as his nieces Kayla Perkins and Alexanne Levengood, and his nephew Cory Brown.
Memorial contributions may be made in Bob’s memory to the Ontario County Humane Society (Happy Tails), 2976 County Road 48, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
Though our hearts are broken, we carry him with us—in every song, every laugh, every wave, and every moment we remember to add a little extra “oomph.”
Link here to a great gallery of Bob’s Life
