Robert B. McKinlay

Robert Bruce McKinlay, 55, unexpectedly passed away on May 27, 2017 at his home in Sutton Massachusetts with his family near. Robert was born in Ogden, Utah, where he graduated from Ben Lomond High School and was the only son of the late Robert H. and Mary L. (Thornton) McKinlay. After high school, Robert graduated from Weber State University with a bachelor’s degree in Zoology.  Robert continued his education by graduating with his certification in cardiovascular perfusion from Northeastern University.  He worked for 30 years as a Cardiovascular Perfusionist at UMass Medical Center: University Campus and previously for St. Vincent’s Hospital both in Worcester, MA. Robert was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Oxford. He also served in the Edinburgh Scotland for his mission. He enjoyed skiing, playing tennis, loved going to the movies, and serving others.  He was also a car enthusiast and he watched for anything that needed improvement being called “Mr. Fix-it” he took care of things immediately and with great attention to detail. He made everything fun and exciting and worked non-stop to make things better for everyone. Robert loved his wife and family and had the passion in his heart to not only take care of them but to take care of others every day.  Robert sadly leaves behind his devoted wife, Julie A. (LaMarche) McKinlay with whom he had just celebrated 22 years of marriage on May 27, 2017; his three extraordinary children, Harrison R. McKinlay, Grant D. McKinlay and Sydney M. McKinlay all of Sutton; two sisters, Margaret DeCaria and her husband Joseph of Plain City, UT and Robin McKinlay of Cottonwood Heights, UT; his mother-in-law, Sydney M. LaMarche of Westborough; two sisters-in-law, Robin Bonvino and her husband Richard of Milford and Tracey Ohearn and her husband Thomas of Webster; a brother-in-law, Doug LaMarche and his wife Kelly of Eagle River, AK; many nieces and nephews.  Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his father-in-law, Robert E. LaMarche. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Robert’s family on Friday, June 2, 2017 from 4-7 p.m. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. His funeral service and burial will be held privately.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Robert can be made to: American Heart Association, PO Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005.  To share your thoughts, memories or prayers with Robert’s family, please visit his personal guestbook at www.mercadantefuneral.com