Robert E. "Bob" McKay

Robert "Bob" McKay passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025, in Gaylord, Michigan, surrounded by his family. He was born on July 7, 1946, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to John and Tarcil (Desormeau) McKay.

Bob spent most of his life on Sugar Island, a place he deeply loved. He grew up on Kimball Street, where there was never a dull moment. It was there that he met his lifelong best friend, Darrell Belleau, with whom he shared countless adventures as children and later as adults on Sugar Island, creating memories that lasted a lifetime.

Bob was a painter by trade, but to those who knew him, his greatest work was the lifetime of memories he created. When Bob wasn't holding a paintbrush, he was sharing his time, laughter, and affection with others. Above all else, he was a devoted father, grandfather, uncle, son, and a loyal friend to anyone willing to listen. To know Bob was to know someone who truly loved life. Painting was both Bob's career and his passion. Through McKay Painting, he built lasting relationships with his clients and took pride in the work he did alongside his employees. Bob continued painting for as long as he was able, grateful for the people and opportunities that came with his trade.

Bob found joy in many of life's simple pleasures. He loved Sugar Island, his 1993 Chevrolet station wagon, socializing and telling stories, watching the deer that visited his yard, listening to his scanner, and watching Western movies. Most of all, Bob cherished his friends and family.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Amy (Brian) Azevedo of Sugar Island; son-in-law, Willard Nolan of Sault Ste. Marie; grandchildren, Amber (Josh) Horner of Sugar Island, Nicholas (Hannah) Nolan of Sault Ste. Marie, Jared (Becca) Azevedo of Kenmore, Washington, and Jaelyn Azevedo of Kent, Ohio; great-grandchildren, Nolan and Junah Horner; sister, Linda (Mike) Doyle of Cave Creek, Arizona; brother, Jim (Brenda) McKay of Lapeer, Michigan; and sister-in-law, Nancy McKay of Sault Ste. Marie.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Lisa Nolan; his parents, John McKay and Tarcil McKay Gervais; his stepfather, Roger Gervais; his brothers, John "Jack" McKay and Ronald McKay; his sister, Shauna Britz; and his special nephew, John S. McKay.

A memorial celebration of Bob's life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post #3, 3 Legion Drive, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. All are welcome to come and celebrate Bob.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.