Robert John “Bob” McGovern passed away peacefully on April 23, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. He was 79 years old. He was adored by many nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Bob was born on September 17, 1941. He was born and raised in Medford to the parents of the late Rose and Frederick McGovern. Dear brother of the late William McGovern, Frederick McGovern, Bernard McGovern, Lawrence McGovern, George Ross, and Carolyn Amigo. At the age of 15, Bob met his future wife, Ann Zarella, through one of his best friends, Larry Zarella. Ann and Bob courted all throughout high school. Bob graduated from Medford High School in 1960. On September 22, 1963, Bob married his high school sweetheart, Ann (a 4’ 11” powerhouse, little Annie). Ann and Bob were inseparable through the years. You rarely saw one without the other. He was deeply devoted to his bride of 57 years and his faith. He was the proud father of three daughters, Tina Lavoie and her husband Richard, Patrice Madigan and her husband William, and the late Deborah Heinbuck. He was the father-in-law of Jay Heinbuck. His girls were his world. His life was focused on being a good father and a strong role model to others. Bob was extremely proud of his grandchildren, Joseph “J.J.”, Deborah, Mackenzie and Jacqueline, and the young adults they have become. Papa will always be a huge influence in their lives. It is through his examples, we have learned to become loving, caring, gentle, generous, and compassionate.
One lesson we learned from Bob was the value of hard work. His first job was at the First National Stores in Medford. He worked most of his career at Sylvania, as a very, successful sales representative, where he met many lifelong friends. While his daughters were in their teenage years, he opened a popular superette and ice cream store on Spring Street in Medford, fondly known as “McGovern’s Superette” and “McGovern’s Cream.” He greeted all his customers with his contagious smile.
Bob loved his “Third Street” squad, his friends, dancing, fishing, hockey, traveling, and spending time at Newfound Lake. His greatest love was spending time with his family.
Bob said “The best job I’ve ever had was raising my three girls.”
A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Bob’s life will be held in the Immaculate Conception Church, 600 Pleasant Street, Malden on Wednesday, April 28th, at 11:00am. Visitation will be held in the church from 9:00am-11:00am prior to the Mass. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to Make a Wish Foundation, 133 Federal St. 2nd FL, Boston, MA 02110 or wish.org