Robert James Kotosky

Stow - Robert James 'Rob' Kotosky died unexpectedly on Sunday, November 2, 2025 with family by his side. He was 57.

Rob loved life and his people. Rob was a devoted husband to his loving wife of 27 years, Sherri, and a proud father to their children, Nicholas and Caroline, who brought him endless joy. They cherished every moment spent together, finding happiness in the simple, shared moments that made up their life together.

Rob was born on December 22, 1967, in Stamford, Connecticut, the beloved son of the late Nancy and Paul Kotosky. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Rick and Kenny Kotosky of Denver, Colorado, and his father-in-law, Ronald Samara of Worcester, Massachusetts.

Rob is survived by his wife and lifelong companion, Sherri. The two were true soulmates who shared an enduring love. He was an amazing dad to their children, Nicholas and Caroline, all of Stow, Massachusetts. He is also survived by his sister, Debbie Saphier of Raymond, Maine; his mother-in-law, Sharon Samara; and his in-laws, Sandra Samara, David Samara, and his wife Jennifer, all of Shrewsbury, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Rob’s family was the heart of his world, and he carried their love and memory with him throughout his life.

A graduate of Stamford High School, Rob went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University, where he became a proud brother of the N.E.Z. fraternity. The friendships he formed there were cemented into a lifelong, close-knit group, affectionately known as the N.E.Z. family, who remained among his closest friends throughout his life.

Rob spent his career as a sales account manager, developing strong and lasting relationships along the way. His dedication, integrity, and easygoing nature earned him the respect of colleagues and the friendship of many clients. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards, recognizing his success and commitment to excellence.

Rob and Sherri’s love story began while they were living in Boston. Together, they built a life full of shared dreams and adventures—welcoming their babies to their home in Framingham and finally establishing a home in Stow.

Rob took immense pride in making their house a true home. He dedicated himself to every project—building decks, sheds, replacing the roof, installing siding, creating beautiful gardens, landscaping, updating flooring, and tackling challenges both big and small. He worked side by side with Ron, taking on many major projects together. After Ron passed, Rob continued to face these challenges on his own, drawing on his resourcefulness and determination. His hard work, attention to detail, and thoughtful approach left a lasting mark on both the home and the family within it.

Rob was a steadfast and loyal fan of the New England Patriots. As a season ticket holder, he celebrated countless victories and championships, including the Super Bowl, with the same group of tailgating die-hard fans since the 90s—a tradition he relished as much as the games themselves.

Rob was a man who cherished the simple joys of life, finding happiness in the company of family and friends and creating memories that will last forever. Whether he was captaining the family’s “floating living room” pontoon boat, kayaking across rivers, lakes, and oceans, or hiking mountains, cliff sides, and caves, Rob embraced every adventure with enthusiasm. He found hidden treasures antiquing, enjoyed rounds of disc golf, lakeside celebrations, beer festivals, poker nights and The Simpsons. He spent countless hours building Legos, playing video games, and looking for sea creatures with the kids. Rob took the helm of the RV, with Sherri, the kids, and their furry companions in tow, guiding them across much of the country and turning every pit stop, scenic overlook, and detour into playful and unforgettable adventures. His love for life and his ability to bring people together made him unforgettable, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Family and friends will honor and remember Rob’s life by gathering for an Evening Wake at Saint George Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Anna Street, Worcester on Friday, November 21st 4 to 7 p.m. His funeral service will be celebrated on Saturday, November 22nd in the Church at 9:45 a.m.The Very Rev. Fr. Milad Selim, Dean of the Cathedral will officiate. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery, Worcester.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. George Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Anna Street, Worcester, MA 01604 https://giving.myamplify.io//app/giving/stgeorgecatheral or Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston MA 02115 https://www.dana-farber.org/

† May his memory be both eternal and a blessing †

Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street, Waltham.