Robert A. Sears MD, a long-time resident of Westport and Longmeadow, Mass., passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2014, at the Charlton Hospital in Fall River, at the age of 86 after a fall and brief illness.

He was born in Torrington, Conn., and grew up in Ware, Mass.  Dr. Sears practiced medicine in Western Mass., for  34 years as a specialist in internal medicine and endocrinology before his retirement in 1995.

He graduated from Williston Academy, attended Tufts University both as an undergraduate and medical student, and remained a devoted alumnus. He served on the Tufts University Alumni Council and as president of the Tufts University Alumni Association. He later received the Alumni Association's Distinguished Service Award.  After retirement he was instrumental in establishing Tufts Institute for Learning in Retirement.

His interests in the outdoors, camping, and community service began as a Boy Scout where he reached the rank of Eagle Scout.   Family camping while visiting our National Parks, experiencing the launch of Apollo 16 and exploring the sites of Civil War battles in a Star Craft camper, was a family ritual for many years.  In later years he traveled to all seven continents following an interest in natural history, geography, and experiencing the different cultures. His retirement years in Westport were a special joy with family, boats, water, ospreys and friends.

He leaves behind his wife of  60 years, Norma (Sample) Sears; their  sons, Robert of Los Angeles, James of London, England, Stuart of Sharon, and David of Arlington; and daughter Martha Sears Baker of Westport and Westwood,, Mass., in addition to eleven grandchildren..

To sign the on-line guest book, please visit www.potterfuneralservice.com.