Robert F. Cimeno Jr. of Tisbury, and recently of Brunswick, Maine, passed away on August 30, 2026, just before his 64th birthday. He was born in Boston to Robert and Patricia Cimeno on August 31, and settled on Martha’s Vineyard several years later as the oldest of six children.
Rob showcased his creativity and craftsmanship in many ways throughout his life. He attended the Tisbury School, where he won Mr. Ovios’ first “Golden Hammer” award for woodworking (an achievement that has not been independently verified, but we will take his word for it) and graduated from Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, crowned class of 1980’s “Most Artistic.” From there, he never stopped educating himself, always curious and open to learning new skills. He was self-taught, self-employed, and took meticulous care, earning a reputation as the guy for the job throughout his 30-plus year career in stone fabrication and design.
A man of many talents, you could count on Rob to understand your obscure references, as his interests spanned from motorcycles to U.S. history and Andy Warhol paintings. He often acted as his own mechanic, a skill he knew had its limits, and learned to snowboard in his 40s, a hobby he thankfully gave up before breaking anything.
When he wasn’t working, you could often find him at home outside, feeding the birds and deer, propagating his plants, or tinkering with something. When or if the apocalypse hit, Rob was the one you wanted to see coming in his red Dodge Power Wagon. You just needed to know the code word.
A nearly lifelong islander, Rob had recently moved to Maine, to the same area where he spent time as a child with his aunt and uncle. After a lifetime of working through Island summers, the Maine lifestyle was a welcome change. Throughout his life he was a loyal friend, beloved father, and made life more fun. Rob is remembered for his wit, sense of humor, and generosity by those who knew and loved him.
He was predeceased by his father, Robert, and youngest brother, Derek. He leaves behind his two daughters, Lindsay and Olivia, his faithful English bulldog, Rockie, and a close circle of family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held on the Vineyard at a later date, with details to come in a future edition of this paper. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to M.V. Shellfish Group, online at mvshellfishgroup.org/donate-now, in honor of Rob and his brother Derek.
