Robert F. Harrell, a Baltimore trucking company executive, died of a heart attack Sunday at his Woodlawn home. He was 73.

Born and raised in Charlotte, N.C., Mr. Harrell served in the Army as a transportation specialist from 1952 to 1955 and attained the rank of lieutenant.

He began working for Baltimore Shippers, a trucking company owned by his brother, in the 1950s. In 1963, he established Harrell Freight Inc., which he operated until selling the business in 1978.

From 1978 until his death, he was a vice president of Superior Transfer Inc. of Baltimore.

Mr. Harrell enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He was a member of Lochearn Presbyterian Church.

Services were private.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, the former Rebecca Hudson; three sons, Steven C. Harrell of Eldersburg, Gregory K. Harrell of Stewartstown, Pa., and David B. Harrell of Cocoa Beach, Fla.; and three grandchildren.