Eight Bells: Bob Evelyn

Bob Evelyn

Sailboat and racing yacht designer and builder Edward Robert “Bob” Evelyn, 87, died January 27, 2025, after a short illness in Prospect Harbor, Maine.

Well known in Southeastern New England regatta circuit, early in his career, Bob maintained his own boat design and building business with the help of his wife, Sallie and his dear friend, Jimmy Hansen, while he worked as an engineer for Electric Boat.

Bob’s designs from the 70s and 80s, which ranged from 24 to 42 foot light displacement, racer/cruisers, were race winners that continue to compete.

In 2001, Bob met and married Mary Curtis. They lived in Noank and Summerfield, Florida before settling on the coast of Maine in 2020 in a house Bob designed. Bob continued to play golf, joined the Petit Manan Yacht Club, enjoyed excellent food (but not lobster or clams), and a good drink.

Bob packed a lot of fun into his years. He was a race car driver, loved motorcycles, had many friends, and was a pushover for the stray and rescue cats that found their way into his heart. His sailing buddies remember him for his racing skill and his generosity in teaching others.

Bob is survived by his loving wife Mary; sister-in-law, Carolyn Caron and husband John; and feline pals, Chester and Henry. He was predeceased by his first wife, Sallie Connolly; mother-in-law, Mary Connolly; brother-in-law, Joe Curtis.

There will be a gathering in Connecticut to celebrate Bob’s life at a later date.

Donations in Bob’s memory may be sent to the Schoodic Food Pantry, P O Box 173, Corea, Maine  04624