DANVERS, MASS. — James “Bob” Robert Thrower Jr., 87, of Danvers, Mass. died peacefully Thursday morning, Feb. 3, 2011 at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington with his family by his side.

He was the beloved husband of Jean Louise (Campbell) Thrower.

Born in Raleigh, N.C., he was the son of the late James R. Sr. and Mae A. (Lane) Thrower. He was raised and educated in North Carolina, and was a graduate of the University of Virginia, earning his bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering. He continued his education at Salem State College, earning his master’s degree in education. A highly decorated and honorably discharged veteran, James served his country as a member of the United States Navy during World War II, for which he received the Silver Star for valor among other commendations. He began his professional career at General Electric’s River Work Plant in Lynn, Mass. He matriculated to be a longtime educator; Mr. Thrower was a professor at Massasoit Community College in Brockton, Mass. until the time of his retirement.

An avid outdoorsman, Bob enjoyed photography, nature and exploring family history. He loved to travel, but above all else, his family was paramount. He relished spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He especially enjoyed having them at his summer cottage that he and his wife built during the 1970s on Trickey Pond in Naples.

In addition to his wife, Bob is survived by his daughters, Linda Lee Pempsell of East Hampstead, N.H., Jill A. Cote of Haverhill, Mass., Stacey Lee Doyon of Westbrook and Robin Louise Hatt of Windham, N.H.; 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.