Robert "Bob" Barnard

Bob will be remembered for his talent as a master carpenter. At age fifteen he built his first house as an apprentice under his teacher and early mentor R.K. Hammond from Lynn Technical and Vocational Institute. He was a craftsman and perfectionist; able to envision, design and build beautiful structures, cabinetry, furniture and family heirlooms. Fifty eight years later, the hope chest that he crafted for Lois at age 16 is still treasured. In later life, Bob became the Head of Maintenance for the Lynn School Department. His perfectionism at work was renowned and sometimes bemoaned by those who worked under him.

Bob proudly served his country in the US Army, serving in the Vietnam War. He returned home to finish his service in Washington DC as an Armorer where he was an Honor Guard at Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

In retirement Bob built the home they dreamed of on a mountain in Vermont where they had many great years. Just four weeks prior to his passing, Bob and Lois moved back to Lynn because the winters became too hard and his health was failing. As Lois cared for him these last few years, he called her the “velvet steamroller” as she advocated for his healthcare and lovingly tended to him. More than anything or anyone else, Bob loved his wife and sweetheart Lois. Getting Lois back to Lynn and closer to family and friends was his final act of love.

Bob’s quiet demeanor and quick wit were a trademark of his personality. You could count on him to bring smiles with a funny aside or clever joke at the dinner table or over a drink. He and Lois had many great adventures. As frequent Cruisers they saw Alaska, Hawaii and visited almost every Caribbean Island. Bob was a collector of hats, rare guns, wildlife figurines and tools. He liked things symmetrical and matching. He once painted his canoe blue and white to match his Bronco.

Bob enjoyed a brother-like, lifelong friendship with Tim McManus and Mike Wesson. Their support and the love of friends like Ralph and Linda Simard brought many good times and laughs. In addition to his wife, Lois, Bob leaves his sister Kathleen Sobutaka, his sister-in-law Annmarie Jonah and brother-in-law Michael Pennino. Bob was predeceased by his mother Kathleen (Sheehan) Barnard, father Howard Barnard, brother Richard Barnard and George Jonah. Bob also leaves dozens of cherished nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours from 4 – 7pm Thursday night, December 9th from the Cuffe-McGinn Funeral Home at 157 Maple St. Lynn. Funeral services will be held at the Funeral Home on Friday December 10th at 9am, followed by a prayer service at 10am. Interment will be at Puritan Memorial Park in Peabody immediately after services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Veterans www.americanveteranshonorfund.com. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cuffemcginn.com for the Barnard family.