Robert Edward McCauley

We are saddened to announce the unexpected passing of Robert Edward McCauley of Groton, beloved husband of Patricia, who died on April 3, 2026, at Lowell General Hospital.

Born on April 2, 1948, in Little Falls, New York, he was the son of the late Charles Alvin McCauley and Bernice Eleanor Rahm McCauley. He was raised in Little Falls before going on to attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He spent his career in the technology field, working at Digital Equipment Corporation and later Compaq, where he was known for his deep knowledge of how things worked and for being a thoughtful and capable manager.

He shared 30 years of marriage with his wife, Patricia. He built a life grounded in curiosity, kindness, and partnership, especially in the years he shared with Patricia.

In retirement, he and Patricia gave time together as volunteers at the New England Aquarium and the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. He found real joy in helping others understand the natural world. In addition to his work with the aquariums, he volunteered to drive cancer patients to their medical appointments, a reflection of his generosity and willingness to show up for others.

For the past fifteen years, he and Patricia spent winters in Florida, where together they enjoyed long walks, bike rides, and visiting museums, sharing a curiosity about the world around them. Bob and Patricia would also open their house to family and were often traveling to see their children and grandchildren.

He was a loyal fan of baseball, especially the Boston Red Sox, and followed the team with steady devotion over the years. He was a lifelong learner, practicing Spanish every day on Duolingo. He found happiness in simple, meaningful routines: visiting the library, enjoying ice cream, and being outside. He was a quiet person with a subtle sense of humor, and those who knew him well came to recognize and cherish his wit.

He especially loved spending time with his six grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy, taking them to the aquarium and parks, sharing what he knew, or just goofing around.

He is survived by his loving wife Patricia; his four children, Michelle McCauley, Paul McCauley (spouse Jessica), David McCauley, and Aubrey McCauley (spouse Michael); his two stepchildren, Mark Flanagan and Diane Flanagan; and his six grandchildren, Kaiden, Miller, Bridget, Eleanor, Evelyn, and Connor. He is also survived by his siblings, Janet Eckard and Chuck McCauley.

A celebration of life will be held on April 18th, 2026, at First Church Unitarian, 19 Foster St., Littleton, MA.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to organizations that support environmental education or marine life.

Arrangements under the care of the Badger Funeral Home, 45 School St., Groton, MA. 978-486-3709, www.badgerfuneral.com.