Dr. Robert Sayrs of Norwell, a former Director of Special Education, beloved husband of the late Connie Sayrs, died peacefully on August 18, 2011. He was survived by many nieces and nephews: Susan Wyatt, Elin Faye, Wendla, Peter and Mark Robbins, Herbert Robbins and Susan Sheldon. He is also survived by very dear and devoted friends; Chuck, Tom, Harold, Frank, Ed, Mike, Roger and Mike. He will be sorely missed by all.

Bob was former co-owner of the Louise Duffy Travel Agency in Hingham.

Bob was also a founder and Life Member of the South Shore Natural Science Center, following its growth to prominence.

Bob was a former member of the Massachusetts School Psychologists Association, Scituate Arts Association, Museum of Modern Art, National Audubon Society, Appalachian Mountain Club, Stetson Kindred of America, Scituate Historical Society, and Norwell Historical Society.

Bob was known to his friends and relatives as a good friend and patient teacher who delighted in helping people learn new skills. Bob's nieces recall when he shortened a set of golf clubs for them as children and taught them how to play golf.

Multitalented, Bob loved woodworking, and built reproduction antique clocks, carved signs, and birds. Bob was an avid historian and as an owner had a special interest in the antique Cape house style, completing a monograph about the Double Chimney Cape.

Many of Bob's loyal friends took part in his love of hiking, biking, and skiing. Hiking all of New England's 4,000 foot mountains was one of his significant accomplishments. His running earned him the nickname "The Silver Streak" after he and his friends formed the "Jolly Tinkers" club.

Bob designed and carved the beams for the post and beam sun room addition to his Cape. After being inspired by his friends, they took down the giant pine from which the frame was made.

Above all, Bob was a loyal and devoted husband to Connie, his wife of nearly 60 years. Bob benefited from Connie's support, participation and patience. Bob was a model friend to many, and inspired their loyalty to him over the course of decades.

Services will be held at the McNamara Sparrell Funeral Home, 30 Central Street, Norwell, MA on Monday, August 22, 2011 at 10:00 am. The service will be preceded by a visiting hour to begin at 9:00 am.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Bob's memory to the South Shore Natural Science Center, Jacob's Lane, 48 Jacobs Lane Norwell, MA, 02061.

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