Robert A. Tirrell, of Plymouth, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 7. He was the devoted husband of Michelle A. (Gianetti) Tirrell; loving father of Christie Smith and her husband Douglas of Exeter, NH, and Michael Tirrell and his fiancée Kristen Torres; brother of Judith Tirrell of New Mexico, Paul Tirrell and his wife Tracey of Plymouth, and Scott Tirrell and his wife Wendy of Plymouth. Robert is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
He was 71 years old.
Born in Waltham on Dec. 15, 1954, Robert was the son of the late Talmage A. and Susan L. (Ellis) Tirrell. Raised in an Army family, he moved frequently throughout his childhood before settling in Natick, where he graduated from high school. He later enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving as a military police officer.
Following his dedication to service and protection, Robert made a career as a corrections officer with the Massachusetts Department of Correction at Walpole and Plymouth. After retiring in 2002, he continued serving his community by starting his own business as a constable in Plymouth, Wareham, and Carver.
Robert and Michelle were married on Feb. 1, 1976, and raised their loving family in Plymouth. He had a deep love for nature and was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting. Robert also had a special love for animals, especially dogs, and was a proud member of the Beagle Club in Plainville.
In addition, Robert was highly accomplished in martial arts, earning his 9th-degree black belt in Uechi-Ryu karate at Peter McRae Karate School – an achievement that reflected his discipline, dedication, and strength of character.
A visitation will be held at the Cartmell-Davis Funeral Home, 373 Court St., Plymouth, on Friday, Jan. 16, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Donations in Robert’s memory may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.