Robert John Tolan

Robert "Bob" Tolan, 73, of Beverly, passed away suddenly on Wednesday October 15th.
Following his choice to exercise his passion for his craft of carpentry, the Lord gently called Robert home.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Robert lived a life rooted in faith, kindness, and quiet strength. A resident of Beverly, Massachusetts, he was a faithful member of Star of the Sea church, the Carmelite Chapel, and Divine Mercy Chapel, where his steady presence and warm spirit touched many lives.
Robert was blessed with many gifts, one of which was his remarkable talent as a carpenter. He poured his heart into his craft, not only because he excelled at it, but because it brought others such joy. Helping people through his work was something he truly loved.
A skilled and passionate craftsman, Robert founded R.J. Tolan Construction in 1973, building a respected commercial and residential company with his own two hands.
He shared his passion and devotion for entrepreneurship and supporting others with his daughter, who built her own private therapeutic practice and moving company, Clean Slate Moving. Robert enjoyed the many moments with Rachel, working together, bonding over a shared passion of hard work, dedication, and helping others.
Beyond his talent for carpentry and business, Robert also had a lifelong love for hockey. He shared that passion with his son, coaching him throughout his youth and cherishing every moment spent on the ice together. Those years of dedication and encouragement helped inspire RJ's own path-eventually leading him to become the head coach of the Endicott men's hockey team. Together, father and son continued to share not only their love for the game, but a bond that reflected Robert's enduring pride and devotion to his family.
Robert was a man of steadfast devotion and deep love. A widower, a man of honesty and faith, he spoke fondly of his first wife, Patricia, of 49 years. Robert spoke lovingly of his two children, and five grandchildren, a love that shaped much of his heart.
But in God's grace, life had more love in store for him. In time, Robert met Lisa Hally at their local church, and together they began a new chapter filled with love, warmth, laughter, healing and companionship. A quiet man by nature, he never hesitated to speak of and show his love for her. From the day they met, and the day they married, they cherished every moment together-he wanted to share every part of his life with Lisa and their family.
His kindness was felt by all who knew him; he had a gentle way of making others feel safe, seen, and loved. Robert's legacy is one of compassion, humility, and devotion-and it will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to walk beside him.
Robert is survived by his children, Son, RJ Tolan, wife Kayli and his grandchildren, Nellie, River, and Cy Tolan. His daughter, Rachel Tolan and his grandchildren, Winslow and Weston Hinkel. His wife, Lisa Hally Tolan, and her daughters Cassandra, Cayla, and son David Hally. His sister, Susan Tolan, her three daughters, and their families.
Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia; and son-in-law, Daniel Hinkel.
May he rest in the eternal peace of God's love, and may we carry forward his spirit of gentleness, faith, and devotion.
Robert's funeral Mass will be celebrated at Saint Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 251 Cabot Street, Beverly, on Monday November 3rd, at 11:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours at the Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot Street, Beverly, on Sunday November 2nd, from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity close to Robert's heart may be made in his memory; either Saint Jude Children's Hospital or the MSPCA. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.