Robert H. Cathcart Sr.

Robert H. Cathcart, Sr., 79, passed away suddenly on February 17th of natural causes. He spent that day with loved ones in the Pittsboro NC home he had retired to. He and his wife, Vangy, spent many years raising their family here in Boxford. Making many wonderful lasting friendships along the way. Bob was born in Jamaica Plain on March 30, 1935 to Theodore K. and Mabel O. (Holland) Cathcart. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Evangeline Berry Cathcart, their three children; Robert H. Cathcart, Jr. and his wife, Terri, of New Boston, NH, Garrett J. Cathcart of Pittsboro, NC and Jill Cathcart Thompson and her husband, Marcus of Pittsboro, NC. He will also be missed by his brothers, Theodore K. Cathcart, Jr. and his wife, June, of Wakefield, NH and Paul D. Cathcart and his wife, Lorna, of Topsfield, MA as well as his sisters-in-law, Lila Berry and Beverly Becker. Bob is also survived by his six much-loved grandchildren, Jamie Lynn Hosty and her husband Gabriel, Robert Nathan Cathcart, Wiley J. Cathcart, Ashley Kastelein and her husband Joshua, Tyler J. Cathcart and Marcus Alexander Thompson. Bob was lovingly referred to as "Captain Bob" by his grandchildren... something that always brought a smile to his face. After graduating from Melrose High School and Emerson College, Bob spent 40 years in the commercial lines property and casualty business. He was promoted from underwriter, to account executive to managing vice president. He was a natural for the business community with his strong ethics, warm heart and trademark humor. While commuting to Boston from Boxford, Bob was very active in the Tri-Town community. He volunteered to assist youth groups through the First Congregational Church, was a chairman for the Boy Scout Counsel and served as president of the Chieftain's football boosters. He was also a passionate handyman and craftsman who had a knack for restoring old houses, one of which was the family home on Depot Rd. After raising their family, Bob and Vangy relocated to Rochester, NY, Windsor CT and eventually retired in Pittsboro, NC. During this new phase in his life, he became an avid poet and author. He published two books, "A Yankee Peddler Nutmeg Cookbook" and "Evolutionary Thinking about Death and Life". The latter book hallmarked the evolutionary philosophy he committed to in his later years. In addition to his books, he authored a poster, in effect apologizing for the behavior of his/our ancestors toward Native Americans during the developing years of our nation. Throughout his life, Bob loved good food and drink. He often prepared meals for his family and close friends, never shying away from trying a new, unusual and creative dish. He was adept at making people feel comfortable in their own skin and was always able to make them laugh. These precious gifts will be missed by all who came to know and love him. Formal services were held previously in Pittsboro, NC. There will, however, be an informal memorial service held in West Boxford Center at Lincoln Hall, 561 Main St., at 11:00 am on Sunday, June 28th. Those who wish to pay their respects to the family or simply remember Bob can come "as they are" and bring a "pot luck" dish to share.