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Robert McQuillan Obituary
Vigil Service Wednesday, 7pm St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, 10am St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Interment, Calvary. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Creighton University, St. Vincent de Paul Parish or Marian High School. VISITATION begins 4:30pm Wednesday at St. Vincent de Paul Church. HEAFEY-HEAFEY-HOFFMANN
DWORAK-CUTLER
WEST CENTER CHAPEL
78th & West Center 391-3900
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert McQuillan
February 6, 2010
February 6, 2010
February 6, 2010
Linley and Michael Daly
January 9, 2010
Dear Colleen
We will never forget Bob's wonderful sense of humor, the gift of your presence at our wedding or the incredible team the two of you were. So many memories stuffed into such a short lifetime. Bob is dearly missed. Our love and prayers are with you all.
January 3, 2010
One year later and I have kept you guys in my thoughts and prayers every single day. We are all thinking of you on this day.
Scott Taber
May 31, 2009
Colleen and Family
my deepest sympathies to you and your family with the loss of Bob. We graduated from CU school of medicine and before you know it 20 years have passed. God Bless and comfort you.
Scott, Betty and Alex.
Chris Ravage
May 4, 2009
I was deeply saddened to read about Bob's passing in the University magazine.He was a good classmate, and always had a positive outlook. I last spoke to him about 5 yrs ago, but will never forget him.
Renee Welp- Heindel
May 1, 2009
Colleen,
I just read of the loss of Bob. It has been over 20 years since I have seen both of you and the saddness I feel over his loss can only be attributed to what a great guy he was. I really got to know him better in the NSICU at St. Luke's during his residency. We all loved him(the nurses). I let it slip that he got the spirit award and from then on out he was Mr. or Dr. Spirit. He would look at me with a "thanks a lot Renee" look and then just smile. Never did he enter the the ICU and not come and say hello to me if I was working, give me a Colleen update, and make me smile. I was so proud to say "yea, he's a Creighton Doc". I knew watching him as a resident that he was going to be an awesome doctor. Watching you and Bob as a couple was also a gift. Even as undergrads, it was evident the bond you shared. Colleen, you will so very often be in my thoughts and prayers.
Renee Welp Heindel
Amy Plank
April 26, 2009
Colleen, I don't know if you even remember me anymore, but we were sorority sisters together and Bob was one of the first people I met when I went to Creighton. He was such a gentleman and such an excellent person. I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Amy (Ramirez) Plank
Stan Flint
March 20, 2009
Colleen,
I am deeply saddened by your loss.
Stan ("H"), Mary Jo, Max & Evie Flint
Beverly McEachern
February 26, 2009
To the McQuillan Family:
I was profoundly saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. McQuillan. I was privileged to know Dr.McQuillan. As a sales manager for a medical device company, Dr. McQuillan treated me with respect and introduced me to many of his colleagues at the hospital. He was always witty, interesting, enthusiastic and hard working. I meet many folks in my travels and few have left as lasting an impression as Dr. McQuillan. I hope for you, his family, the gift of fond memories of this truly memorable man.
Sincerely,
Steve & Anne Kern
February 4, 2009
Bob was such a wonderful man - his departure is heartbreaking. It was a great privilege to know him.
Pradeep & Nalini Narotam
January 26, 2009
Dear Colleen, Bridgit, Erin & Gavin,
Our deepest sympathies on the passing of Dr. McQuillan. We had the utmost respect and fondness for him while working at CUMC.
Our thought and prayers remain with you.
Pradeep & Nalini Narotam
Joe Slattery
January 26, 2009
Dear Colleen,
I was deeply saddened to hear about Bob's untimely death. I can't even hope to imagine how much you and the children must miss him.
After the tears flowed, the joyful memories of Bob flooded my mind. The little piece of paper he carried in his wallet to help him remember jokes. When he dragged this New Yorker to Greeley NE, how it seemed like another planet, and my introduction to the delicacy of red beer. Our 1 am impulsive decision to drive to Colorado to go skiing when we grew weary of studying for the MCATs. It seems that McQ and/or you played a central role in many of my fondest memories and greatest adventures during my years at Creighton. Few could embellish a story like McQ and even fewer had his gift for placing his arm around your shoulder and raising your spirits with his words of encouragement mixed with small town wisdom.
I am blessed to have had him as a friend and a fraternity brother.
I will be keeping you, the children and Bob in my prayers.
Love,
Slatts
anonymous
January 23, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Mary Jo (Nekoliczak) Nielsen
January 22, 2009
Dear Colleen & Family
Bob & I were classmates at Greeley. I remember our senior year and all he could talk about was becoming a Dr. The last time I talked to Bob was at our 20 year class renunion. He was a great friend and classmate and we always had a lot of fun together. He will be greatly missed by everyone. Your family has my deepest sympathy
Tom & Jackie Lynch
January 19, 2009
Colleen-
So sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful husband. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Mark Kistler
January 18, 2009
Colleen: Words can not express how deeply saddened I am for the loss of McQ. McQ will always live on in my memories as a "great man". He was a leader, a "doer" and a difference maker for so many. I am proud to call him my friend.
We met as Phi Psi pledges freshman year at Creighton. I was a shy kid from Kansas City - McQ was not! Ha! We hit it off instantly. All of my memories of McQ are ones of smiling, laughing and having a great time in each others company. He always had that mischievious "twinkle in his eye", a quick smile, a funny (many times snide) comment, a quick story about something. He always showed he cared and he always said "yes" if you needed something.
I want you to know that you are a big part of my great memories too. You two were meant for one another. True "soul mates". The three of us go back a long way and we will always have many of those same great experiences to share. I was fortunate to see the two of you over the years when I would get in to Omaha on business. You two would always make the time to meet me for dinner, have a drink or help me acquire great seats to Jays games. When we would get together, it was always like "I saw you last week", no matter how much time had passed. So comfortable, so easy, so fun.
Someone once said "Death is the great clarifier - it shows us what's important". For those of us left behind, McQ's passing provides the opportunity to reflect and "reprioritize" our lives. To focus more of our time & energy on our spouses, children, overall family & great friends.
In closing Colleen, I know McQ loved to travel. When we would get together, he would always talk about places he had been or wanted to see. He always had a great passion to learn and see things. Given this passion, I will choose not to think of McQ as dying, but as being far away from us on a long, wonderful trip. My faith assures me that he is in God's hands now and he is on the best trip he could have ever imagined!
God bless you and your beautiful children. He has left a wonderful legacy behind.
Mark, Robin, Adam & Natalie Kistler
Richard Prielipp
January 17, 2009
The McQuillan Family
I was fortunate to work with and get to know Bob over the last three years, in our mutual focus on Patient Safety and TeamSTEPPS. He was a wonderful clinician, educator, and humanitarian. He will be missed. My deepest sympathy.
Richard Prielipp, MD
APSF Committee on Education and Training
Bill Birkby
January 17, 2009
Though Bob was much younger than me, we shared a common path into the medical profession through Creighton University. Our home town of Greeley, NE and Sacred Heart School nurtured us in our early schooling. My deepest sympathy to all of Bob's family. Bill Birkby
Douglas and Jacqueline Schobert
January 14, 2009
Our sympathies to the entire McQuillan family for your loss. May your memories of this wonderful man give you peace.
Kathy Byrnes
January 13, 2009
Colleen: I worked with you over at the Pottawattamie Red Cross building in 1987/1988. You and Bob were married the same year as Jack and I...as a matter of fact, you made my wedding programs for us!
My heart goes out to you and your family. May your memories comfort you always.
Take care,
Kathy Moritz Byrnes
Patrick Lawler
January 12, 2009
Dear Colleen,kids, and family. Kaye and I where floored when we heard about Bob. We have many fond memories from Med school and time spent at the Phi Chi. Our thoughts and Prayers are with all of you. Pat,Kaye, Sean,Maggie,Kara,Brian, Elena, Alexei, and Rudy.
JD Bramble
January 12, 2009
I just wanted to let you know that I enjoyed the opportunity I had to work with Bob over the last few years in the area of patient safety. My heart is saddened at his lost. My sincere prayers go out to your family during this challenging time.
amy abbott
January 11, 2009
McQuillan Family:
I was so shocked and deeply saddened by the news about Dr. McQuillan. I am an ICU nurse at CUMC and he also has been my treating physician since 1993 when my series of care accidents began (thankfully none my fault!). He was so genuine and always seen happy. He will be missed by many. I remember the day he told me that you had a new baby boy to add to the household full of women and he was thrilled! He was also a great teacher. He helped my husband intubate patients during his respiratory therapy program to gain this new skill. When we decided to get married, he was telling us of the quaint little place in California where you went for a trip (where Murder she Wrote was taped) and had put that in for HIS vote on our honeymoon!
I can only imagine the loss you all must feel but know there are many people who will be praying that God may help you all find comfort in one another as Dr. McQuillan has in the loving arms of our Lord. May God watch over you all.
Sincerely Amy and Jon Abbott
Kelsy Hollenbeck
January 11, 2009
To the McQuillan family,
On behalf of Dr. McQuillan's CU ethics small group we would just like to send our love and sympathies to you all. We were all deeply grieved to here the news of his passing and wanted to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May God be with you in this difficult time.
Kindest Regards,
Creighton University M1 Ethics small group 9
Daniel & Melaine Sample
January 11, 2009
I am very sadened about Bob's passing, and my heart goes out for his family's loss, and the loss to Creighton, and the community. I was always inspired by Bob and his enthusiasm for life and knowlegde. What an amazing individual and what a tradgic loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family. You will always live in our hearts in Greeley.
Heidi Richardson
January 10, 2009
As an ICU nurse it was always a relief to see Dr. McQuillan walk in when Anesthesia was called because he was wonderful to work with and you knew things would go smoothly. He will be forever missed and never replaced. My heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to you.
Alex and Julie MacGillivray
January 10, 2009
Colleen and family,
My family and I are praying for you and your loved ones at this sad time. We will have a mass said in Bob's honor here at Ascension in Overland Park that will again bring back the many memories of fun, laughter and friendship that Bob brought to all.
May the joy of Our Lord bring you comfort and the many prayers enable you and your family.
Mark Siracuse
January 9, 2009
To the McQuillans: When I heard the news about Bob on Monday morning I was both shocked and saddened. What a tragic loss for you, the Creighton community and everyone Bob came in contact with. I had the opportunity to get to know Bob in the August of 2005 when I attended the SEIPS Human Factors Workshop with Bob at the University of Wisconsin. Bob's passion for patient safety in the perioperative are became so evident to me during this week. But most of all, I remember a group of us going out for dinner in the evenings, and having such a wonderful time with Bob. I attended Bob's funeral on Thursday and was very saddened as I sat in the choir section and watched your family grieve for Bob. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Michael Szapacs
January 9, 2009
I proudly worked with Dr. McQuillan for 6 years at CUMC. Since leaving I often think about the people that WERE Creighton. A few people come to mind. Dr. McQuillan was one of those people. He was a true Blue Jay.
DeEtte Person
January 9, 2009
Dear Colleen -- Ann shared the news with me. I'm sorry to hear this and will keep you and your family in my prayers. Take care.--DeEtte (Stokke) Person, Scottsdale, AZ
Marie Hayden
January 9, 2009
Dear McQuillan Family, I am deeply saddened to hear of Bob's death. He was a wonderful person to work with at CUMC. We were all blessed for having known him. He will be sorely missed. May God bless you and comfort you in your time of grief.
Ann Graham Newsham
January 9, 2009
Colleen,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Sorry to hear of your tragic loss.
Virginia McGill
January 9, 2009
Dear Colleen and Family,
We were deeply saddened to hear of your loss. So many of us are better people for having known and worked with Bob. His integrity, humor and compassion touched many, many lives. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Troy Horine
January 8, 2009
Colleen:
I was so shocked and saddened to learn of Bob's death. You and your family are in my prayers.
Bob was a great friend and adviser to me during my tenure as a Development Officer at Creighton University. He (and as I also recall, you) helped me organize and staff a number of phonathons to raise funds for the ILAC program.
I loved Bob's great sense of humor, intellect and enthusiasm for, and commitment to, everything Creighton.
God bless you, Colleen.
Danielle Dolezal
January 8, 2009
Dear McQuillan Family,
I was so saddened to hear of Bob's passing. I am very sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Doug Nemmers
January 8, 2009
To the McQuillan family
We are so sorry for your loss. We attended Creighton together and McQ was one of the nicest and most generous persons we knew. He will be sorely missed.
Doug and Michelle Nemmers (Kansas City)
Doug and Claudia Coffey
January 8, 2009
To the McQuillan Family - I had the pleasure of working with Bob at CUMC for several years. He was truly a patient advocate and sought to improve their care during their stay. He was a great colleague and will be missed by all.
Amy Curran
January 8, 2009
Dear Colleen,
We were so saddened by this terrible news. I can see you and Bob together at Creighton. It does not seem so long ago. We so hope you can feel the support of your Creighton family lifting and carrying your heavy heart.
Amy Curran and Steven Paul
Jennifer & Michael Kutschkau
January 8, 2009
Colleen:
We are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Steve Statz
January 8, 2009
Colleen-
We are so saddened to hear about Bob's death. We will keep you and your family is our thoughts and prayers. We are having a mass said for Bob & your family at St. Vincent de Paul Parish.
Karen Craven
January 8, 2009
To the McQuillan Family, I worked with Dr. McQuillan at Creighton Medical Center and please accept my condolences for your loss.
Jon Eklund
January 8, 2009
Dear Colleen:
I am sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you and your children during this difficult time.
Maureen Fleming, MD
January 8, 2009
Dear McQuillans,
I did a case with Dr. McQuillan the day of his passing. He was quiet and very professional. He was one of the physicians at CUMC that I have long respected. He was very competent and involved. He demanded perfection in himself and others and disliked human imperfection. He made other physicians better physicians. He made everyone with whom he came into contact at CUMC examine themselves in their work, though sometimes we may not have liked it. His loss leaves a gaping hole. I hope that everyone who knew him will carry on his humanistic legacy and never forget what he taught us. His life was worth it. May your family find comfort in the fact that
although his time with you was too short, it was powerful and very, very good.
Stacy Horne
January 8, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr McQuillan was a very generous man and I loved working with him at CUMC. Your family will be in my prayers.
Kathy Tocco
January 8, 2009
Dear Colleen, Bridget, Erin and Gavin:
Bob was a blessing to the Marian High School
community. Know that we stand with you in your time of great sadness and loss. Be assured of our prayers today and many days to come.
sheila garvey
January 8, 2009
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May your faith keep you strong during this time of sorrow.
Matt & Therese Montesi
January 8, 2009
Colleen,
The entire Creighton family suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Bob. We will pray for you and your children.
Charlie and Collette Youngblood
January 8, 2009
We will always remember and deeply respect Dr. McQuillan. Always.
Steven Wasserman
January 8, 2009
To the McQuillan family:
Sometimes even a short encounter with someone illuminates your life. My short interaction with Bob in the AAMC team-building program was one of those experiences. At our workshop in Virginia, Bob was chronically late for team meetings: so much so that it became a running joke. The quick – and incorrect – interpretation was that he wasn’t invested in the program. It became quite clear that this was not the case. Bob was a great listener, interpreter, team member, clear thinker, and quite soon, friend. It was clear that he led not from the front, but from within the pack. In spite of all the competing demands on his time, he remained incredibly centered and positive. In short, he was a mensch. I have lost a friend, as you have lost a father, husband, son. I grieve with you.
Aaron Allen, RN
January 8, 2009
In the short time I knew and worked with Dr. McQuillan at CUMC, I was profoundly effected by his caring and thoughtful nature. I am very saddened to hear of his passing. I will remember the last time I worked with him with great fondness. The world is absolutely a better place for the life he lived and the people he touched. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ken Hacker
January 7, 2009
Colleen and Family
My deepest sympathy to your family. I have great memories of Bob from our Phi Psi days to med school and into residency. He was always upbeat and ready to help whomever was in need. He will be greatly missed by all. God bless your family at these difficult times
Dale Weber
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen and Family,
I was truly saddened to hear the news about Bob. What an incredible loss to everyone who knew him. I had the pleasure of meeting Bob in undergrad at Creighton. He was a great role model and taught us all what was truly important in life, family and friends. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jennifer Dougherty MacDonell
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen,
Greg and I were so sorry to hear of your loss. it does not seem like that long ago that we were sitting in Gallagher Hall in our flannel nightgowns eating air popped popcorn with m&m's and talking until the wee hours. Reading about Bob and your family I recognize so many parallels in our lives... even being married to bald anesthesiologists called"Mac". You and your family are in the thoughts and prayers of so many. May you and your children be comforted by the loving support of all those who surround you.
Bryan and Michele Krajicek
January 7, 2009
Dr. McQuillan was a mentor and role model to me and many of my classmates during my medical school training at Creighton. He helped instill many Jesuit ideals into our education and set a fantastic example to us all. His spirit will live on through the patient care provided by his many mentees. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the McQuillan family and the many friends and colleagues mourning his loss.
Sara, Dale and Adam Todd
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen,
Our hearts ache for you and your family and we are so sorry for your loss of your dear husband/Dad. We pray that the love of your family and friends, your faith and your memories will help sustain you. Will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Dan and Julie (Kane) Okruhlica
January 7, 2009
Colleen and family,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We have such fond memories of Bob- going out in Chicago, Foxy's wedding, and his visits when we were at the University Medical Center when our son had his transplant years ago. Connor still has the Nebraska teddy bear that Bob brought to the hospital.
We always enjoyed being with him. His caring ways and wonderful personality will always be remembered. Everyone touched by Bob's friendship and compassion has truly been blessed.
Fondly,
Dan and Julie
Eileen Thibault
January 7, 2009
Dear McQuillan Family:
So sorry to hear the sad news. I remember Bob as Kathy's kid brother who we would always call upon when we needed another player to even up the sides when we were playing a pick-up game of basketball or flag football. We could always count on him!
At our 30th High School Reunion, Kathy and I were visiting and catching up on each other's family. I remember how grateful and fondly she spoke of Bob. She said he really helped her with her medical challenges. Kathy said he gave her sound advice and genuinely cared about her. You could feel the love she had for him then just as she did when we were growing up together.
Please know that the loss of Bob is felt far and near. We share your grief but take comfort in remembering and sharing our warm memories of Bob. Our deepest sympathy on his passing and joyful hearts that Bob was a part of our lives.
Eileen (Curran) Thibault, Salina, KS
Peg Connor-Porter
January 7, 2009
There are a handful of people with whom you cross paths in life that are unforgettable…they make such an indelible impression on you that you carry a piece of them with you forever. Bob is one of those people.
During our undergrad days, Bob was one of the most well known and beloved people in the Creighton community. It is abundantly clear, from the responses below, that Bob continued to make the same impression in the Omaha community and around the world as he did all those years ago at CU.
Colleen, our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Bill Ryan
January 7, 2009
Colleen and the McQuillan Family,
It has been said how amazing it is that one man's life touches so many others. Bob's legacy is evident from these pages of condolences and memories. He touched so many in the most positive way and his influence will live through us all for a lifetime. As a classmate from Greeley, it was wonderful to share experiences with Bob. Memories that will live forever.
My most sincere sympathies,
Joe Ruble
January 7, 2009
Colleen,
I am Steve and Liz Bauer's friend. I met Bob through them and we were in Phoenix together for our guys' weekend. Please know that Bob always spoke of you and your family in the most adoring terms. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tom Kozeny
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen and Family:
So sorry to learn of Bob's passing. The last time I spoke to Bob, he paid a nice compliment to my father (they were working together on ILAC). It made me feel great and illustrated what a special person Bob was and will be remembered as.
Sherri Hanna and family
January 7, 2009
Colleen and family,
We are so sorry for your loss of Bob. He was such a great guy, and reminded me so much of his brother Pat, in his kindness and humour. You are in our prayers, and if there is anything we can do for you or the kids, please let us know.
Andy Bauer
January 7, 2009
Colleen -- I am so sorry for you and your family's loss and, really, for the loss felt by so many people whose lives were touched by Bob. What a great guy! You're in my thoughts and prayers.
January 7, 2009
Mac and I served together on the University Committee on Rank and Tenure. He was dedicated to the work because he believed we had careers in our hands. He was right.
We continued our friendship at Bluejay games and on campus. Always, I found him to be happy and friendly. He was a Creighton man through and through. I will miss him...
Dr. Gerald Brundo, former dean of Creighton's School of Dentistry
Lynn Sanchez
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen,
I work with Bernie Bresnahan who mentioned that her cousin had died suddenly and unexpectedly this weekend. When I learned today that it was Bob, I immediately thought of you and the kids. The thing I remember you saying about your lives together is that you two never took life for granted, that you had both been through enough loss in your lives that you showed each other how you felt every single day, you laughed a little harder and hugged a little more often and just lived each moment. Your love for each other shined through and inspired us all. I read a passage from "Man's Search for Meaning" last night, and it was so beautiful: "Then I grasped the meaning of the greatest secret that human poetry and human thought and belief have to impart: The salvation of man is through love and in love."
Steve Thompson
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen;
I am so sorry to hear about Bob. I wish I could be there to support you but please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. You have two great friends in Scott and Mary to count on now and forever.
Your Regis and CU friend,
Ann McMahon
January 7, 2009
Our love affair with the McQuillan family began shortly after my sister (Mary Pat Rerucha) was fortunate enough (luck of the Irish perhaps) to move in next to Bob and Colleen nearly 17 years ago. Shortly thereafter, we began a custom of not only including the McQuillan's, but expecting them to appear (along with Joan) at every McMahon gathering regardless of the location or celebration. Bob was affectionately referred to as the 9th McMahon kid - quite possibly my mom's favorite. In fact, when some of my siblings would return to the Big O - Bob may have received a phone call before the locals. But who could blame them? Bob was that extraordinary. We all loved him so much.
The last time I had the pleasure of seeing Bob was at our annual Christmas dinner at the Rerucha house. As always, Bob was in a great mood - a lover of life, laughter and friendships. I even commented to those around me as I observed Bob and Colleen - what a beautiful relationship they had, and how radiant they were. My husband told me that as he rushed out the door with two tired toddlers he extended his hand to say good bye to Bob - and Bob laughed and gave him a great big hug - and suggested it was time to add to the brood.
Colleen, Bridget, Erin and Gavin - thank you for sharing Bob with us. He was a remarkable human being - who enhanced the lives of so many he encountered. I am so very sorry. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers and the McMahon clan will be with you every step of the way.
John Bellar
January 7, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Harriet Kalinsky
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen and Family,
I simply want you to know that the world is a poorer place today than it was a week ago. My heart goes out to all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers now and always.
Kathy Mills
January 7, 2009
Mrs. McQuillan and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely,Staff of Labor and Delivery Creighton Medical Center
Leo Carretero MD
January 7, 2009
I am so sad and shocked to hear about the loss of Dr. McQuillan. Marlena Minshall from ILAC office at OMAHA sent us an email letting us know. Although I only had a few brief encounters with him at 2006, he was always smiling and sharing with us, he promised that he will come back to ILAC so I will really appreciate to sow a tree in his beloved memory with you (if you also come back), Dr. James Manion and Dr. Charles Filipi. Please accept my most sincere condolences on behalf of ILAC staff at Dominican Republic and the poor campesinos that he brought his professional services at ILAC MISSION, we will pray for him and you.
Kevin Grigsby
January 7, 2009
To the McQuillen Family: I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of a wonderful colleague. Bob was a member of Team S'Mores, a team of academic health center faculty comprised in 2007. We will all miss him.
Primo Sherman
January 7, 2009
Colleen,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Bob's passsing. Although it has been years since we have seen each other, the fond memories spent together in our youth are strong. Bob was a sincere and caring man. The things he said and did still make me smile. My prayers are with you and your family
Susie (Sample) Fiala
January 7, 2009
You have my deepest sympathy. I also grew up with Bob, he will be missed.
Michael Walter
January 7, 2009
Colleen and family,
We are so so sorry for your loss. May God bless and keep you and your children in this terribly tragic and difficult time.
We have all lost a truly good, good man in Bob.
Michael and Elizabeth (Kumpf) Walter and family - Thomas, Erin, Eleanor
Bruce and Deborah Houghton
January 7, 2009
Dear McQuillan Family,
We are very sad about your loss. Bob was a wonderful physician, teacher and friend. He will be missed dearly.
I had the honor to know him during undergraduate studies at Creighton through our fraternity and later as a colleague at Creighton.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dave and Jean Dare
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen and family;
Jean and I were deeply saddened to hear of Bob's passing. We can only hope that the tremendous outpouring of love which we know you will receive from your community of friends will help you through these difficult days.
We all have such great memories of our times shared with McQ. I remember when he was chosen to be the speaker at Phi Psi formal his senior year. He asked me to listen to him rehearse his speech (some pretty lame jokes he got from a book). When he got to the end he didn't have anything prepared, he just stopped and said "I know what to say here". That night, he proceeded with typical McQ eloquence to bring the entire room to tears with his expressions of love towards every brother in the place.
Bob lived to love. His love for you, Bridget, Erin and Gavin was the central focus of his life. Every time we spoke in recent years his pride as a father was overwhelming. Still, for the rest of us there was always a kind word, story, joke or inquiry about our own lives which expressed the sincere feeling that he was our friend and was always there for us if needed. He could make you feel loved and you never doubted his sincerity. Know one cared for his fellow human more than McQ. A time will come for us to renew that friendship and once again express that love.
For now, we will cherish his memory.
Rev. gErald Waris
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen... my sister who lives in Omaha sent me the obit... I am so sorry.. I remember you and family when we were together at ST. Peter's in KC... I will offer a Mass for Bob and the family this Sunday... God Bless you.. again..my sincere sorrow..... lots of love and prayers.. fr gerald Waris
Bernadette Hughes
January 7, 2009
Dear McQuillan Family,
My deepest sympathies. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Rosemichele Sorvino-Macchia
January 7, 2009
Dearest Colleen,
My deepest condolences for your loss. I have thought of looking you up countless times over the years. Today, something moved me to absolutely find you. I figured the best way was to look up Bob in Omaha since I remembered he practiced in Omaha...only to discover this tragic loss. I have only the most lovely memories of him...he was very kind and special. And of course, with all these years, you are so very close to my heart... as you always have been. I am so very sorry for your loss, that of your children, and both of your families and friends.
With deepest sympathy, greatest affection, and profound love. Rosemichele Sorvino-Macchia
Gabe Doria
January 7, 2009
Colleen,
My deepest sympathies to you and your children.I am praying for your family,and am deeply saddened.
God Bless all of you.
T.J. Isaacs
January 7, 2009
I met Bob over 4 years ago while I was working in the Ticket Office at CU. Always a great person to speak with about CU Athletics. I am truly saddened to hear the news about his passing. Bob you will be missed!
Budge & Diane Porter
January 7, 2009
Dear McQuillan Family,
Dr. McQuillan was always so friendly and caring at our sons' basketball games and practices. Whenever my son got hurt, he always was there to check him out. One could tell he was a wonderful man. His presence will be sorely missed by all. Our sincere condolences.
Barb (Sorensen) Irvine
January 7, 2009
Colleen and McQuillan family
I, too, am a former Greeley classmate of Bob's. I will always remember him for his love of life and his kind heart. A couple memories I have are working with him at Ryan's little grocery store in Greeley on Saturdays and of the friendly competition he & I had the last few weeks of senior year as we found out we were neck and neck for salutorian. I was sincerely happy for him (& for everyone that would be at graduation) that he got it as hearing him give a speech was always enjoyable. I know it is safe to speak for all when saying that he will always be honored, remembered and missed by his classmates and friends from Greeley.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers now and in the days to come.
Caroline Kuhlman
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen and McQuillan Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Susan, Ted, Marissa, and Kaitlyn Pacheco
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen:
Susan and I were deeply saddened to hear of Bob's death. What a tragic loss. I have so many fond memories of Bob during our years together in college and medical school at Creighton. He had an amazing passion for everything in life. I remember his sense of humor, and his ability to spark in-depth conversations on virtually any topic. It all seems like such a short time ago. You are in our thoughts, and our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family.
Jim O'Connor
January 7, 2009
Dear Colleen and family
I am so sorry for your loss. I grew up with Bob. I have many great memories. He was alway a true friend. Bob could talk to anyone, he genuinely cared about people. I am sure that special trait led him to be a doctor. Everyone knew he would be successful in whatever he did. My deepest sympathy for your family.
Patricia Shea Longacre
January 6, 2009
Dear McQuillan family-
Please know that you are all in our prayers. Bob was so kind to my father & entire family a few years back when my father endowed a chair in the medical school. It was an emotional time as my father did it as a means of honoring my mother who had died after a long illness. Bob was so thoughtful towards my father. Whenever his name came up in Omaha in shared circles I thought so highly of him. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. God Bless- we will all keep you in our prayers.
Patricia & Tim, Colin, Lauren, Brenna and Clare Longacre- and my father- Dr. James J. Shea (CU Medical school class of 1957)
Jean Cimpl
January 6, 2009
Colleen-
I remember when you and your family sat behind my parents' CU game seats and what nice children you had. My father really enjoyed talking to your husband. Then I realized you were the person Karen O'Connor had talked abt forever. My heart aches for you and has been crying to read the beautiful comments abt your wonderful husband. May God's peace and hope be yours.
Tom and Mary Berry
January 6, 2009
Dear McQuillan family,
My most sincere condolences to you, Colleen, Bridget, Erin and Gavin. As I read through the messages there is a recurring theme of love, family, friendship, laughter and good times. These are all the reasons Bob and I become such good friends and have so many countless memories to look back on and celebrate Bob's life. Colleen, I know you have a life full of them also and even as hard and painful as it is to comprehend his death the memories will help ease the pain. Mary and I will keep you all in our prayers and may the Lord grant you peace.
Deb Lee
January 6, 2009
Dear McQuillan Family,
I am so saddened by your loss, indeed all of our loss. Dr. McQuillan was an inspirational, articulate, compassionate advocate in all patient safety and process improvement initiatives. A truly kind and supportive colleague. He will be missed greatly. May God's blessings and peace be with all of you.
John Horgan
January 6, 2009
I offer my sincere condolences to Bob's family for this unimaginable loss. God will hold you in the palm of His hand.
Jean (Mlinar) Havermann
January 6, 2009
I pray many happy memories comfort you during this sad time. I was a classmate of Pat's and lived across the street from Bob's family in Greeley when we were kids. He was such a cute, fun loving child. He will be greatly missed.
Susie (Lammers) Graff
January 6, 2009
So sorry for your loss. Bob was always one to have great goals and to reach them. Reading the notes from all he has touched is overwhelming. Bob will be missed by everyone who's path he crossed. God help you through your tough times and always know that there is always will be a missing son from Greeley
Marilynn (Ryan) Thober
January 6, 2009
Colleen and family,
I am a classmate of Bob's from Greeley. He was always a friend to me and in fact gave me my nickname, Moby. The Class of 1980 will always remember Bob for that giggle in his laugh and "up-to-no-good" expression on his face.
I always admired him for setting lofty goals and for the ease in which he achieved them.
God Bless You All.
Luke Shepherd
January 6, 2009
Colleen and Family,
I am very saddened to hear of the loss of Bob. As an employee of Prairie Life I ran into Bob many times at the gym and no matter how busy he was getting his workout in he always found the time to say hi. This truly shows what type of man he was.
Our prayers are with you,
Luke and Family
Connie Goldsmith
January 6, 2009
I worked with the "Big Mac" at the Omaha Surgical Center, what a great guy!!! I enjoyed working with him and all his challenges to us!! We also shared Merandia stories she was good friends with my daughter Bridget. Know your family will be in our prayers..
Connie Goldsmith
claire and william hunter
January 6, 2009
Bill and I are deeply saddened by Bob's tragic death. I will remember Bob as a deeply dedicated physician and colleague. We will miss him. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
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The Five Stages of Grief
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