Robert Burns Sanborn (Bob), of South Dennis, and Boston, MA, age 95, passed away peacefully after a short illness on his beloved Cape Cod on July 19, 2024. Bob was a brilliant, kind, and selfless man who loved his God, his family, and his country, and was a quintessential member of The Greatest Generation.

Born on January 25, 1929 to Robert and Doris (Burns) Sanborn in Boston, he was raised in Brookline, MA, and was a proud graduate of Brookline High School and Boston College. He was a devoted and faithful Eagle, and embodied the Jesuit motto “Service to Others” his entire life. He served in Korea in the US Army. After his military service, he received his MBA at Wharton (University of Pennsylvania) and, after contemplating getting a PhD and pursuing an academic career, he instead moved to New York City and worked in bonds at Salomon Brothers.

Meanwhile, he had met the love of his life, Shirley Sullivan of Boston. Since she was not interested in moving to New York City, Bob moved back to Boston and began a very successful career in the insurance industry, which suited his love of and aptitude for mathematics. He eventually headed AIG’s domestic business and served on its Board of Directors; he then became CEO of Orion Capital in Hartford, CT. He was widely respected in his field, served on a number of boards, and was elected to chair the American Insurance Association in Washington, D.C. He had a wonderful career and loved the business.

Bob and Shirley married in 1957, and together they raised three loving children, Robert, Linda, and Joseph. Raising their children was their focus, and they were amazing parents. They loved their daughters-in-law, Louise and Danita, as if they were their own daughters. Eventually, they had four grandchildren, Maura, Sean, Alexis, and Morgan. Bob and Shirley were the best grandparents ever and delighted in the company and accomplishments of their grandchildren, attending countless school and sporting events, graduations, and birthday parties.

Shirley predeceased Bob in 2021. They were a beautiful and loving couple who knew how to enjoy a good time and were utterly devoted to their family. Bob was thrilled that he was able to attend Maura’s wedding to Patrick McCauley in June 2023. Friends of Bob’s children and grandchildren were friends of Bob and Shirley, and were always welcomed into their home. Bob and Shirley were universally loved.

Despite Bob’s busy career, which took him all over the world, at heart he was a simple guy who was happiest being around his family, eating a hot dog, and watching a sporting event. He was a rabid supporter of all Boston pro sports teams and of the Boston College Eagles. He was delighted to attend a Red Sox spring training game in Fort Myers in March with his family. He was thrilled with the Celtics’ “Banner 18” and was a devoted viewer of their entire run to the title. Bob was able to attend his last Celtics game with his son and grandson in January, what a memory!

Bob was very active in philanthropic activities in his retirement, serving on the boards of the Cape Cod Hospital and Cape Hospice, among others. He always enjoyed learning and was a devoted member of the Academy for Lifelong Learning and Cape Cod Men’s Club. Bob was an avid reader who remained intellectually curious until the end, reading the Wall Street Journal daily and a book or two every week. Ever the fierce competitor, he was an accomplished bridge player and a formidable cribbage opponent. This summer, Bob was always ready for the game that would keep him in the lead in the series with his beloved granddaughters, Alexis and Morgan; those special times will always be cherished.

Bob had an amazing life and such a positive influence and inspiration to all who knew him. He was one of a kind and will be deeply missed. His spirit continues in all who were fortunate enough to know him. They don’t make them like this anymore!

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Pius X Catholic Church, Station Ave., South Yarmouth, MA on July 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery in Harwich. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Bob’s memory to Cape Cod Hospital, or your favorite charity.

I am so sad to hear of Bob,s passing,he was a true friend,and always looked out for me,I will always miss our conversations, on many topics.I am great ful. that I had the chance to speak with him recently,my condolences go out to the family,I will forever miss him!thank you bob,for being such a great friend,rest in peace ,my dear friend,and may god bless you! Robbie