In loving memory of Robert Wayne McCrea
October 24, 1951 - May 21, 2025
It is with heavy hearts we share the passing of Bob in the early morning hours of May 21st.
Born in 1951 to Genevieve (Hurley) and the late Orland McCrea.
Bob started his career at the tender age of 17 with Woolco in Sault Ste. Marie where he met the love of his life Nancy who was working in the stationary department. Soon after they were married, Bob was transferred to Red Deer Alberta as assistant manger. Their next transfer along with sons Chris and Craig was to Calgary as store manager. Winnipeg then Regina when Woolco now became Walmart. His next and final move was to Sudbury where they worked and lived for over 2 decades until his retirement after 57 years service.
During Bob’s career with Walmart, he received many accolades and awards. He twice received International Store of the Year and in 1995 he was picked up in Sudbury by the Walton private jet and flown to Bentonville, Arkansas were he was honoured with this award.
Bob always acknowledged and gave credit to his wonderful staff, whom he mentored with his immense knowledge of sales and marketing. They loved him and gave him their all because of his fairness.
Bob and Nancy made so many good and lasting friendships across the country - many of whom remain close today. Chris and Craig have fond memories of challenging their Dad by him having to attend school meetings or seeing him jogging across a farmers field after them! As the boys got older, these challenges became teasing just to see his reaction. Dad loved these moments and his boys very much.
Bob was a man who believed no collared shirt was complete without a pen in the pocket and no drink was safe without a paper towel coaster under it. He surprised everyone when he retired and learned how to use a cell phone too all in the same decade. In retirement, dress shoes and the crisp ironed shirts, lovingly provided by Nancy, were still his daily attire. Bob shared his love of Nancy’s peanut butter cookies with his kids and grandkids.
Left to mourn his loss is his loving and devoted wife of 53 years Nancy, his sons Christopher & Craig (Kristin), his cherished granddaughter Kennedy who lovingly called him Fafa and Pops to his dearly loved grandsons Riley & Tyler. He will be dearly missed by his sisters Debbie Krohn (late Paul), Ruth Zanatta (Brian) and Betty Reed (late Robbie).
He will be remembered fondly by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Janet & Brian Wardlaw, daughter-in-law Jennifer McCrea and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Bob loved his family and friends and was always the most gracious and kind host.
Special thanks and acknowledgement to the paramedics, ER staff and doctors and nurses of 3A SAH. You have our deepest gratitude.
If you ever find yourself with a paper towel under your drink and a pen in your pocket, raise a glass to Bob - you’re doing it right.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St, SSM) from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm.
In lieu and flowers, please consider a donation to ARCH in remembrance of Bob. (Payable online or by cheque)
We love and miss you already Bob, save us a seat at your new dining room table.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).