Robert W. Bachmann, 85, of Andover, MA, passed away on October 14, 2016 in Newton, MA. He is survived by his son, Christian T. Bachmann (Jennifer Schneidewent) and his ex-wife, (Christian’s mother) Margaret Jane (nee Baketel) Hastings.

The only child of Herbert and Clara (nee Hagen) Bachmann, Robert devoted his life to teaching. Upon graduating from Bridgewater State College in 1956, he joined the Andover school system, where he inspired the students of East/Doherty Junior High School as a physical science teacher for 40 years. Many students remember him best as eager participants in his Aerospace Science class, which he developed for the school system and for which he received a National Science Award.  He loved being an educator so much that, after his retirement in 1996, he continued volunteer teaching for another 14 years.

When he wasn’t teaching science or directing audio-visual activities (- he was also a graduate of Saunders Electronics School in Boston, and for years, had his own TV repair/installation business), he immersed himself in creative work. He had a huge passion for designing and building model airplanes, which he would fly in contests. He is also well-known by friends, family and neighbors for his clever hand-drawn illustrations, especially on the cards that landed in mailboxes at Christmastime. And, as an avid photographer - with a master’s eye for capturing his subject – Robert also spent many hours in his dark room at home, artfully documenting the things that mattered most to him in life.

In addition to his visual artistry, he was a big lover of music. He enjoyed playing the accordion and even wrote a couple of musical comedies of his own while in college. When his hands weren’t covered in graphite or sawdust, they were digging in the earth – he loved gardening and had a green thumb for raising stunning geraniums.

Robert was a devoted son, loving father, and inspiring teacher… His dry, quick wit kept you on your toes, and his infectious smile would light up a room. He will always hold a special place in the hearts of many.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Wednesday, October 19, 2016 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Charles F. Dewhirst Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 20, 2016 at 10:30 AM at the funeral home. Burial will be in Spring Grove Cemetery in Andover, MA. In lieu of flowers, Robert requested that donations be made to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) .To send an online condolence, please visit www.dewhirstfuneral.com

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