Robert D. "Barefoot" McCreadie

It is with great respect and sadness that we announce the loss of our beloved Robert "Barefoot Bob" McCreadie. Bob was a legend in both the racing world but also to those closest to him, who knew him to be truly one of a kind: always authentic, often hilarious, witty to a fault, and defiant to the end. He was a "folk hero to the masses" and his absence will be felt deeply. At 73 years old and surrounded by his loving family, Bob passed away at home on May 15, 2024 after battling a lengthy illness that he faced with bravery and resolve.
Robert D. McCreadie was born on January 19, 1951 to William and Betty (Vincent) McCreadie. He married Sandra L. Ritton on February 2, 1974 in Brownville, NY. The couple have three children: Timothy (Karen) McCreadie, Macedon, NY; Tyne (Erik Russell) McCreadie, Dexter, NY; Jordan (Courtney) McCreadie, Copenhagen, NY; five grandchildren, Kiera Russell, Kylie Russell, Kingston McCreadie Russell, Gavin McCreadie, Cambria McCreadie; a great grandson, Gunner Clement; a brother Patrick (Sandra) McCreadie, Carthage, NY; a sister Kathleen Woodard, Amherst, NY; and several nieces and nephews. A brother Dennis and his wife Mary Lou McCreadie predeceased him. He was deeply loved by all.
There are many stories to be told about Bob. While he is well known for his racing prowess, it is important to note that he was equally revered in his personal life. He was a loving husband, gentle and cherished father, incredible grandfather, and devoted friend. Bob had a gift when it came to his ability to get along with kids-probably because he was just as mischievous, if not more so! In retirement, Bob helped his wife Sandy care for several children, including his close friend Lyle's grandchildren, Nicolas and Claire, and his youngest grandchild, Kingston. Bob enjoyed many activities: listening to and playing music (a self-taught guitarist and drummer), reading (Stephen King was a favorite), tinkering with (hacking) computers, and helping his son Jordan with his own racecar. For decades, his shop on the North Side of Watertown was a buzzing hub of familiar faces coming and going, all revolving around the man who kept them in orbit.
Bob assembled a crew who traveled alongside him throughout his 30 plus year career in stock car racing. Northeast Dirt Modified Museum and Hall of Fame described him best: "A scrawny, wild kid from the wrong side of the tracks who found salvation in auto racing, McCreadie's legend began in small-block Modifieds in 1971, at area ovals like Evans Mills and Watertown. By 1981, he was tearing up the clay on DIRT's tough Central New York circuit, crowding the best in the business out of the winner's circle." He would continue to expand his influence far beyond anyone's expectations.
His unparalleled experiences earned him the nickname "'Barefoot', a throwback to his shoeless childhood days and later a super-narrow Plymouth Barracuda that was so tight he had to remove one shoe to drive it. He was always "the man" to a steadfastly loyal crew who lived by his lead, in the shop and on the tracks." On asphalt and dirt, Bob claimed more than 500 victories at 56 speedways. These wins stretched across North America from Quebec to Florida, and even across the globe to Australia. Despite his growing popularity and recognition, Bob remained ever humble, a fan favorite who would always take the time to acknowledge those who supported him.
Bob's journey as a racer earned him many accolades, including induction into several halls of fame: the Eastern Motorsport Press Association Hall of Fame, the Dirt Track at Charlotte's Walk Hall of Fame, Lowe's Motor Speedway Walk of Fame, Northeast Dirt Modified Hall of Fame, and the North Country Sports Hall of Fame.
While Bob is the face of the legacy of the #9 car, we would be remiss if not to mention those who he often would cite as the ones truly responsible for his success: his loyal and gifted crew. A motley crew indeed, they were his best friends, and he loved them deeply.
Finally, we know Bob would like to acknowledge his wife. Steadfast in her support of him, Sandy enjoyed 50 years of marriage with Bob. She was instrumental in caring for him as he navigated many unfortunate injuries and illnesses through the years. They stuck by one another through thick and thin, no matter what.
Bob, we trust you are whizzing around entirely too fast and lapping the field at that. Now you get to rest with Mike, your mom, and Dad. We love you endlessly.
Calling hours will be Sunday, May 19, 2024 from 1-5pm at the D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. A private memorial will be held by the family at a later date.
Online condolences may be made to www.dlcalarco.com
Contributions may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County 1398 Gotham Street, Watertown, NY 13601
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