| LifeSketch |
- LifeSketch
CLINTON - Robert L. Wincapaw, 76, of Clinton, passed away on March 20, 2016, surrounded by his loving family. Bob, also known by his country music family and friends as Bob Elston of "Bob Elston and the Road Rangers."
He was born in Thomaston on May 19, 1939, the son of the late Lewis and Rita (Alexander) Wincapaw. On Oct. 17, 1962, he entered the Army and served two years until his honorable discharge on Oct. 16, 1964, with the rank of private E-1. Bob started his own traveling business, General Distributors, a door to door pastry delivery service, where he met a number of friends along the way.
Around that same time, Bob also started his music career, forming his Road Ranger band. Bob met his sweetheart, Marlene Carpenter in 1968 when she became the "girl" singer in his band. Bob and Marlene spent many years traveling throughout what Bob liked to call "the Great State of Maine" later writing a song titled, "Salute to the State of Maine." They entertained in various bottle clubs, county fairs and stage shows for the next four decades. Bob was one of the founders of the Maine Academy of Country Music, and was inducted into the Maine Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001.
Continuing his lifelong passion of entertaining in country music, Bob never failed to include one of his many famous stories with the show. His contribution to country music in the state of Maine will live on in the hearts of many.
Survivors include his wife Marlene Wincapaw of Clinton; sons Jeffrey Clark of Clinton and Glenn Curless-Clark of Fairfield Center; his granddaughters, Kathie Sue Zehring and husband Jeremiah, Wendy Grady-Cote and husband Warren, Kayla Guenard and husband Josh, and Whitney Curless-Clark and fiancé Travis Coro; great-granddaughter, Kaylee Zehring; and great-grandson, Mason Coro, along with several nieces and nephews; and many special dear friends.
At Bob's request, there will be no public viewing or services. A private graveside burial for family will be held at a later date.
Donations in his memory may be made to the Maine Academy of Country Music, 452 Cony Road, Augusta, ME 04330.
Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan and Scott's Cremation and Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, Maine 04976.
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