Obituary of Robert Harold McMahon

July 1, 1931 – January 18, 2019

Bob passed away peacefully at the Niagara Health Hospital in St. Catharines with his loving family by his side. Left with wonderful memories of this kind and gentle man are; Eva, his wife of 63 years, his children Brian (Laura), Catharine (Bill), Kevin and grandsons Curtis and Caleb and loving sister Marjorie Baker, her daughter Susan (Jim, Sarah).

Bob’s strong belief in personal integrity, which drove all that he did was perhaps a by-product of being born during the Great Depression, but it was certainly a quality he learned from his hard working father and mother Francis James and Margaret McMahon. Bob was a man of honour, integrity, strength and kindness and unwavering commitment to his family. He was a true gentleman, courteous to all who crossed his path. Rapid Robert, as he was known to a few of his close friends, believed his word was his bond and that a handshake was as good as his word.

Bob was born in Almonte but lived all his life in St. Catharines. At a very young age he was already showing an entrepreneurial spirit, his first job was as a paperboy until he graduated high school. He sold off parts of his route three times including once to buy his sister a doll buggy. He cut lawns at New Fashion Narrow Fabrics every summer and he cut asparagus at Secord Farms before going to school.

Bob graduated from Merritton High School, the only boy in the Commercial Class. His ability to type was his entry to Davis Lumber where he typed invoices. Mr. Davis recognized his work ethic and promoted him to Salesman and soon to Sales Manager. He also drove a taxi at night and unloaded boxcars when they came in on weekends.

Thirteen years later a gentleman by the name of Gordon Danby heard about his outgoing personality and reputation for work, which attracted an invitation to embark on a new career in the insurance industry that Bob resisted for sometime out of loyalty to Mr. Davis. However, with Mr. Davis’ blessing he overcame his fears and made the move in 1961. Bob had found his niche and never looked back. 

Bob became an avid golfer; he joined the St. Catharines Golf & Country Club 62 years ago. He had a unique experience with holes in one in 1995, when he had one on the 7th hole and a week later aced his tee shot on the 17th hole. Watching his grandsons begin to play golf, however, surpassed his joy in the holes in one.

Bob served on the board and was also Golf Captain; he worked on many committees and chaired the first Gentlemen’s Member Guest golf days back in 1966 where the prizes were Waterford Crystal, reflecting the host's desire to sponsor a prestigious event.

In an example of the esteem with which golf officials in Canada held him, in 1991 he was asked to join the Canadian Seniors Golf Association.

Over the years Bob also participated in many civic duties such as Chair of the United Way in 1972. He was also active in raising money for various local causes including the Break Through healthcare campaign which raised $6.5 million dollars to purchase an MRI Scanner and breast screening centre for the Niagara area.

Bob enjoyed travelling, spending time with his family, attending concerts and the theatre. He also enjoyed fast cars and reading three newspapers a day. With his wonderful sense of humour and quick-witted comebacks, he left us laughing. With Bob’s never ending kindness and generous heart, he believed in little acts of daily kindness, which touched many people.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for Bob during his final battle, their kindness was appreciated. Eva and her family will miss Bob's courage while battling Parkinson’s disease and he was an inspiration to us all.

At Bob’s request, cremation has already taken place. If so desired, donations to the following charities would be appreciated:

The Steve Ludzik Foundation

https://thesteveludzikfoundation.org

The Salvation Army – St. Catharines

https://salvationarmy.ca

Visitation will take place at the George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton St. on Thursday. January 24, 2019 from 2-4 and 6-8pm and a celebration of life will be held at the George Darte Funeral Home on Friday, January 25, 2019 at 12pm followed by a gathering of friends and family at the St. Catharines Golf & Country Club at 1pm.