Worcester—Robert "Bob" Caughie Burnett, 90, of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at home, surrounded by family. His work here has now been completed.
Born on March 16, 1935, in Glasgow, Scotland, to Simson and Ellen (Caughie) Burnett, Bob emigrated to Worcester in July 1961 with his bride, Ann, to begin a new life and raise a family in America. Bob was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ann C. Burnett (McCulloch), who passed away in 2009 after nearly 48 years of marriage; Joan Sroczynski, his partner of many years; and his siblings: sister Mary Davidson, sister Elizabeth “Betty” Connor, and brother Andrew Burnett.
He is survived by his sons Robbie and Rod, daughter Kairon and her husband, Kevin Sullivan, and his cherished grandchildren: Catherine “Kate” Burnett, Anne Burnett, Kevin Sullivan, and Olivia Sullivan, who lovingly cared for her Granda and cherished their time together in his final months. He also leaves behind his niece, Mary Lowell, and his niece, Margaret, and her husband, William "Bill" Stashluk, along with his grandniece, Jennifer Jordan, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins in Scotland
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Bob worked for Sprague Electric Company and Worcester Envelope Company as a Machine Designer, where several of his designs were awarded patents. He also held titles as a Project Manager and Plant Engineer before retiring in 2000. However, his work never truly stopped. Bob continued to think creatively about solutions to problems, which led him to return to work part-time. He also rekindled his passion for bagpiping by teaching his granddaughter Kate to play. Bob was a member of The Morning Star Lodge A.F.&A.M. for 63 years and served as the Pipe Major of the Aleppo Shriner Pipe Band. His interest in bagpiping began as a pre-teen in the Boys’ Brigade in Glasgow, where he initially learned to play. Despite the challenge, Bob's determination led him to continue playing and eventually join the 7-time Grade-I World Champion Clan MacRae Society Pipe Band, winning their 8th cup in 1953. One of Bob's greatest personal accomplishments was playing for the Queen.
After serving in the British Army as an armorer, Bob pursued a career in machine design. In 1961, Bob was invited by the Worcester Kiltie Pipe Band to come to Massachusetts, where he and Ann started their life together. They married on July 1, 1961, and emigrated to the United States the following day. The Kilties went on to make history as the first Grade 1 U.S. band to compete at the World Pipe Band Championships in 1964. Bob also served as the Pipe Major of the Kilties during the 1960s and 1990s.
Bob and Ann raised their three children and four grandchildren with a blend of new-world opportunities and traditional Scottish values. Bob’s booming personality, unwavering devotion, and fierce love for his children and grandchildren made him an unforgettable presence in the lives of all who knew and loved him. His sharp wit and infectious humor inspired years of laughter and unforgettable memories around his kitchen table.
Service Information: Friends and relatives are respectfully invited to a visitation from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, at Nordgren Memorial Chapel, 300 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01605. Morning Star Lodge will conduct a Masonic Memorial Service to close the evening.
Bob’s family wishes to thank the wonderful staff of the Overlook Masonic Health Center for their kind and compassionate care. A special debt of gratitude goes to Brenda and Jennifer for their exceptional round-the-clock care.
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