Robert Charles McKeating (“Bobby Mac”), 73, of Woonsocket, RI died on September 16, 2020 at Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence after a long battle with kidney and liver disease. He was born December 18, 1946 in Woonsocket,RI, son of the late Kevin and Neva (Grant) McKeating.
As a teenager, he was a cadet in the Rhode Island Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, and a 1965 graduate of Woonsocket High School. After high school he and his family moved to Hudson, NH where he lived until enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in July 1966. He served his country over the next two years as a supply administration NCO in Vietnam, achieving the rank of Corporal. He was honorably discharged in July 1968 and returned to Woonsocket. He attended the former Rhode Island Junior college, where he served as president of the Shielders and studied liberal arts. He later attended Johnson and Wales College where he majored in Business Administration.
He held a variety of positions over the years, including working for the city of Woonsocket as the Deputy Tax Assessor and for the US Census Bureau. He was involved in local politics and was an active member of the Woonsocket Democratic City Committee. He served on several campaigns including those of former Lt. Gov. Richard A. Licht, former Lt.Gov. Roger N. Begin and the late state Senator Roger R.Badeau. Even in his retirement, he remained involved in the city by serving as a member of the Board of Tenant Affairs for the City of Woonsocket until the day he died.
He was an avid golfer, sports fan, and loved to travel. He combined these three interests and traveled the country to play various golf courses, and visit major sports teams. He was very patriotic and extremely proud to be a Marine. He made an annual trek to visit Washington D.C. for the 4th of July every year. He was a lifetime honorary member of the Italian Workingmen's Club, where he worked part-time as a bartender. He was a good friend to many, and very loyal to those friends. He was extremely proud of his two children and all of their accomplishments and loved seeing his grandchildren grow up.
He is survived by his daughter Kristen McKeating of North Smithfield, son Scott McKeating and his wife Charlene of Cumberland, brother Kevin McKeating Jr. and his wife Remy of Nashua, NH, sister Kathie Demers of Ossipee, NH, sister Carmel Monaco of Brookline, NH, five beloved grandchildren Rylie, Cole, Marina, Dylan, and Seamus, and several nieces and nephews.
Robert never liked being the center of attention and per his wishes, there will be no funeral services. A private graveside memorial service will be held for family members. Those of you wishing to memorialize Robert can do so by making a donation in his name to the charity of your choice.
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