Robert "Bullet" Putnam

West Lebanon, NH- Robert E. “Bullet” Putnam, 79, died on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon, NH.

Bob was born on October 16, 1946, in Claremont, NH, the son of Earl and Janet Putnam. He attended Charlestown High School. On March 27, 1971, Bob married Ann Sackevich in Charlestown, NH. The two had met at the Duck Inn in Springfield, VT, beginning a relationship that grew into 55 years of marriage. Together, they raised their family and shared countless memories, adventures, and traditions.

Bob worked as a machinist at Glenco and Sturm, Ruger, where he took pride in his work and craftsmanship. He also worked with Speedway Safety Services, serving with the Golden Cross at race tracks. His work around racing fit naturally with one of the family's favorite pastimes, as Bob and his family often attended races together.

A lifelong lover of baseball, Robert coached Little League in Claremont and later coached baseball at Stevens High School, where he had the special opportunity to coach his son. He was also a longtime friend of Ralph Silva, whom he was proud to have known and learned from as a mentor. Bob fondly remembered his school days and the time he spent playing baseball and soccer with Carleton Fisk.

Family time was especially important to Bob. He loved the ocean and looked forward to family trips to Maine, often visiting three or more times each year. Old Orchard Beach, Wells, and Ogunquit were favorite destinations, and the family frequently rented cottages where they could enjoy time together. He and his family also shared a love of sports and spent many memorable days attending events together. Bob was an enthusiastic NASCAR fan and followed the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston Bruins.

Bob was predeceased by a sister, Joyce.

He leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Ann Putnam of West Lebanon, children, Derek Putnam (Casee Guillette) of Hartford, VT, Brenda Duhaime (Arthur) of Enfield, NH, Heather Cornell (Kenneth) of Washington, NH, as well as a brother, John Putnam. Survivors also include his grandchildren, Brittney, Shelby, Trentin, Maddison, Brady, and Gabe, as well as many extended relatives, neighbors, and loved ones.

A private celebration will take place at the convenience of the family. Knight Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook found at www.knightfuneralhomes.com