Robert K. McGrath

Robert K. McGrath, 72, of Worcester, died Friday, December 26, 2025, at his home after a long illness.

Bob was born in Worcester, son of William J. and Eleanor (Barry) McGrath, and lived in Worcester all his life, except for many recent winters in St. Augustine, Fla.

Bob attended the former Assumption Prep and graduated from St. John's High School in Shrewsbury in 1971. At St John's, he was an outstanding soccer player. Earlier this year, he was inducted into the St. John's Athletic Hall of Fame, joining two of his late brothers, Barry and Richard McGrath. He was also given the Bruce S. Kopka '71 Memorial Alumni Award for his exemplary life of courage, perseverance and character.

Bob went on to graduate from Assumption University and later earned a Master's Degree in Education at Worcester State University.

Bob was called "Big Bad Bob" by his close friends, a name that belied his selfless care for family, neighbors, friends and community, his gentleness, his goodness and his enormous heart.

Bob was a pioneer in emergency medical care as one of the first emergency medical technicians in the City of Worcester. He spent 25 years in his field serving the growing needs in the city. He was supervisor of the emergency medical ambulance team answering calls in the City of Worcester out of the UMass-Memorial Medical Center for many years. He also worked with the Federal Emergency Management Agency as part of emergency response readiness.

Bob was fulfilled knowing that he and his colleagues saved thousands of lives over his career.

Bob spent a significant amount of his time raising funds for causes associated with child illnesses. He loved Christmas and played Santa Claus on countless occasions to raise the spirits of sick children. He was a frequent volunteer at St. Anne's Parish in Shrewsbury.

Bob was an avid golfer and a lifetime member of the Brown Square Civic Club.

He leaves his sister Eleanor Lynch and her husband William of Westborough; his life-partner Wendie E. Haglund of Worcester; many close friends including his neighbor and best friend Roger Karr of Worcester; and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves his sister-in-law Nancy McGrath and the entire Haglund family. Bob was predeceased by his brothers Barry, Richard and William.

There are calling hours Friday, January 2, 2026, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. The funeral Mass will follow at Noon in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1290 Grafton St., Worcester. Burial at St. John's Cemetery will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to St. John's High School, 378 Main St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545.