Robert "Bob" McCullough, 82, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2025. He was surrounded for several days prior to his death by family and close friends. Bob was always willing to help guide and mentor those who were struggling. He was often described as kind, caring, genuine, giving and simply the best.

Bob was born on December 6, 1942 in Saugus, MA to Charlie and Zsuzsanna (Hnath) McCullough. Bob and his sister, Patricia, spent their early years in Saugus before moving to Lynn, MA. His mother would later remarry John "Chub" Wade giving Bob his younger brother Kevin Wade. Although they were many years apart in age, they were extremely close. Bob spent his years in Lynn surrounded by his parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He had great memories growing up in Lynn where he spent his childhood at Warren Street Playground, the reservoir and mostly just getting into trouble. Life long friends and bonds were created that he talked about up until his final days.

In 1968, he married Carol DiTonno of Wakefield. They moved to a home in Melrose where they raised their three children and they were still living there when he passed. Bob worked multiple odd jobs to provide for his family in addition to his full time job at General Electric of 40+ years as a jet engine welder; the "best in the business" according to him.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed the simple things: reading, exercising, photography, wood carving, coloring, hot rods and working in his yard, which he turned into a beautiful Japanese garden. His many creative talents were displayed all over his home. His love of dogs was a constant throughout his life. But by far, his greatest enjoyment was watching his children become adults and raise children of their own, making him a Papa. "Papa," "Papa Woof," or "Papa Sweetie" had a strong presence in their lives and will leave a void that cannot be replaced.

He is survived by his wife Carol (DiTonno) McCullough, his children Elizabeth Burke and her husband John Burke of Melrose, Suzanne Caliendo of Tewksbury and Robert (Bob) McCullough Jr. and his wife Lynsey (Peterson) of Riverside, Rhode Island. He is also survived by his grandchildren Maddie Caliendo, Grace Burke, Calvin Caliendo, Johnny Burke, Brendan Burke, Makena McCullough and Isla McCullough.

He was predeceased by his sister Patricia DeSantis, brother Kevin Wade and many more beloved friends and family members. Also not to be forgotten were his many dogs over the years- Flash and Sweetie to name a few.

Visitation will be held Monday, June 23, 2025 from 5-8pm at Gately Funeral Home, 79 West Foster Street in Melrose. Close friends and family are invited to join the family for a tribute and celebration to honor his life at Rosaria Restaurant in Saugus, MA on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 1:00 PM. During the tribute, anyone is welcome to speak and share your favorite memories or stories of Bob.

In lieu of flowers or donations, Bob's wishes would be for you to live in the moment. "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference