Robert McNamara

Robert "Bob" McNamara, born June 8th, 1935, lovingly known as Dad, Grandpa, Mac, Bob or Bobby; passed peacefully October 5th, 2026, at the age of 91, surrounded by the love of his family and those who held him dear.

Mac leaves behind his beloved son R. Christian McNamara and Christian’s partner, Jessica Steele, along with their son, R. Declan McNamara, who was the absolute light of Mac’s life. He also leaves his grand dog Shelby, who brought him so much joy.

Mac is survived by his former wife Judith (Burke) McNamara and their children; Pam McNamara and her son Jeffrey, Patricia McNamara and Michael McNamara along with his wife Carolyn, and their children; Kyle and Liam.

Mac attended Bishop Bradley High School as a Pioneer, before joining the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served his country. After his military service was complete, he built a lifelong career in automobile sales with a brief hiatus as an owner/operator of Port City Deli in Kennebunkport, Maine. The administration couldn’t turn down a good sandwich, so Mac got his security clearance to deliver fresh subs to Walker’s Point, while the first President Bush was in office. Mac eventually returned, to and then retired from Dobles Chevrolet where he dedicated himself to serving his customers and coworkers for many decades. Mac was known for the relationships he built throughout his career and for the many people whose lives he touched along the way. In his eyes, every customer was a friend.

Throughout his life Mac was fortunate to have friendships that lasted decades as well. Some friends remain here to share the memories, while others went before him. Mac often joked about the day he would join those friends again, stating that Kevin McHugh would be waiting to open the pearly gates for him. Once there, Mac imagined he would take his rightful place at the table with the “Lunch Bunch” – Don, Joe, Loggy and Fritz. Together again, gathering as “Manchester’s Finest”, truly a reflection of Mac’s wonderful sense of humor, but more importantly, showing how deeply he valued the friendships and camaraderie that were such an important part of his life.

Mac was predeceased by his parents, George and Martha McNamara, and his brother George “Skip” McNamara. He is also survived by his sisters; Elizabeth Lagerquist, Nancy Bruno and Kathleen Albert, as well as his sister-in-law, Carol McNamara. Mac leaves his loving, longtime companion Laurie Lyon, many nieces and nephews, and stepchildren who will forever remain family, Robyn Hall Stern, Kerri Hall and Melissa Sanel.

Above all Mac will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, brother and friend. His greatest joy was his family, especially his grandson Declan, who held a very special place in his heart. Their bond was a source of tremendous happiness and pride for Mac and the memories they shared will be treasured by the family forever. He will be thought of fondly each time someone who knew him cruises along the beach at Hampton, where he spent many summers soaking up the sun, drives past Cannon Mountain, where he loved to ski, and taught many a turn or two, or any time someone just wants to, “sit and have some conversation.” Mac always made an impression on those he met, whether with his quick wit, generous spirit or genuine interest in others, and it made him someone to remember long after paths had crossed. Mac’s presence will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A mass will be held in his honor at St. Catherine of Siena on October 15th, 2026 at 10:30 AM, followed by his burial at Pine Grove Cemetery. A celebration of Mac’s life will be arranged at a later date, because we all know he loved a good party.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leaves of Life Tree to benefit patient programs on the Fitch Unit at The Elliot.