Robert E. “Bobby” Brigham, age 83, of Quincy, formerly of Winchester, passed away on October 23, 2021. He was the beloved son of the late Frederick H. and Irene C. (McGowan) Brigham, of Winchester, where he and his siblings were raised.
Bobby was the dear brother of Frederick H. Brigham, Jr. and his wife Ann of West Virginia, formerly of Vienna, VA; Lois A. (Brigham) Saltalamacchia of Newbury, MA, formerly of Reading, MA; Mary Jane (Brigham) Buckley of Framingham, MA, formerly of Essex, MA; Sister Martha C. Brigham RCE of Framingham, MA; and the late Christine B. Brigham of Annisquam, MA. He is survived by 18 nieces and nephews, 36 grand-nieces and nephews, a growing number of great-grand-nieces and nephews as well as his friends and Amtrak family.
Bobby, also affectionately known as “Kalamazoo Kangaroo”, showed tremendous strength, grace, and fortitude as he navigated his cancer diagnosis over the last six months, working right up to the end with the willpower and determination of a steam locomotive . He was always so grateful for the love and support he received by all throughout his life, along with those at his beloved Amtrak family & those he encountered at High Pointe Hospice in Haverhill, MA. No matter who you were or how you met Bobby, he touched you and you remembered him for all time. To some he was once known as “the voice of South Station” as he announced trains, or perhaps assisted with his encyclopedic knowledge at the Information Booth there, or was simply remembered by someone he met.
Bobby was famous for his story-telling of real-life situations, historical facts, and just about every topic of conversation. He was well-versed and articulate, and enjoyed hearing a good story, or sharing one. His distinct flair for story-telling, the authentic and colorful descriptions infused with a slew of adjectives superbly pronounced in such animation and unique style that only he could deliver, captivated the listener.
Along with his love of music, especially classical music, Bobby enjoyed nature, camping and traveling the rails. He was a model railroad enthusiast, inventor and engineer, whose innate talents led him to design a steam-heating system to keep his tent warm so he could extend the camping season.
What he loved most was people, every kind of people, and he fit you into his heart for all time (even the many treasured teddy bears he received as gifts and collected!).
Funeral Services and burial are private. A Celebration of Life Service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bobby’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.