Robert Freeman Tingley

Robert “Bob” Tingley passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 28, 2024 in Boca Raton, FL. He was husband of Janice DiLorenzo (Tingley), father to Sasha Tingley Lee (Jerry), Quinlan, TX,  and grandfather to Jeremy Lee. He also leaves two brothers, Otto (Laura) Tingley and Carl (Gretchen) Tingley both of Rhode Island. We especially hold dear our extended family children Dr. Renzo Cifuentes and Dr. Virginia Perez, who were with us throughout our journey despite the geographical distance.

As was his tenacious nature, Bob fought long and hard, defying medical predictions and expectations associated with his Merkel Cell Carcinoma. He was hard working and loved the outdoors. His nickname “Motor Ting” was probably the result of his love of anything mechanical, but mostly motors. A green John Deere tractor and a red 1974 TR6 were among his greatest treasures. Boating, salt-water fishing, and swimming were life-long passions from his summers spent on Green Hill Pond in RI. He once caught a 700 pound tuna, the largest caught in RI that year!

Bob was born June 16,1942 in Cranston, RI where the Tingley boys were well known for their ice hockey prowess and their love of all things outdoors. He proudly graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 1966, working his way through school as a custodian and by joining ROTC. Bob graduated with a degree in Physical Education and became a teacher in Wickford, RI, later adding painting contractor to his resume. He relocated to Boca Raton, Florida with his daughter when his aunt needed his assistance. Bob became the PE coach at Plumosa Elementary in Delray, and worked there until his retirement. He loved that job and the many kids he met along the way.

The highlight of Bob’s life was earning his commercial pilot’s license and a special license to fly the Robinson helicopter. He loved taking his family and friends for rides and flying along the ocean. He was especially proud of flying Santa to events whenever he could.

Bob will be missed by many, especially his best golf friend Chick, his Sunday football buddy Tom, and his helper-in-chief Dick.

Services are private. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the University of Rhode Island RHODY Now Fund serving all students in immediate need of services, money, food, etc. Or make a contribution to the URI fund or scholarship of your choice. Call Joanne Gemma at 401-874-5514 for assistance.

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