Robert T. Harrild

Robert T. Harrild of Sharon and Wellfleet, formerly of Sidcup, England passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family on June 28, 2024 at the age of 93.  Beloved husband of Mary (Shaughnessy) of 58 years.  Devoted father of Geoff Harrild and his wife Amber of Melrose and David Harrild and his wife Kim of Newton.  Cherished brother of Eileen Plastow of Woking, England.  Loving "Grand Dad" of Reghan, Jackson, and Desmond.  Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, in laws, and friends.  A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at a later date.

Bob was born on March 27, 1931, to Thomas and Margaret. His youth was spent in a suburb of London, with much of his early life shaped by WWII (his father worked at the Daily Mail and would spend nights on the roof spotting incoming bombers). Yet, his childhood was a joyful one, with many happy moments spent with his sister Eileen. Bob was always adventurous and afraid of nothing—except thunderstorms and lightning (the ‘booms’ of which perhaps brought back memories of the bombing raids).

The first in his family to go to college, Bob received a degree in Electrical Engineering from London University through a work-study program. After serving in the British Army, he took a leap of faith and emigrated to the US during the “brain drain” of the '60s. Arriving in Camden, NJ, after a rough January crossing, he took a position through a friend at RCA. Work was demanding but rewarding and was balanced by times such as those at Wissahickon Ski Club, where he met Rolf Germann—who became a lifelong friend (and would serve as the best man in his wedding). Next, he moved to the Boston area to work for Raytheon Corporation, where he served as an Engineer in both the commercial and defense areas. At Raytheon, Bob had the opportunity to travel extensively, which he loved. During that time, he also became part of the ‘County Downers’ group, an informal group of some of Bob’s best friends that included Jack Matthews and Bill Hurley. Together, they would meet on Sundays at Bob’s Brookline apartment and sing Irish songs—well and at full volume. At Raytheon, he also met Peter Grant, Tom Graney, and other dear friends who played such an important part in his (and Mary’s) lives.

Bob married Mary Shaughnessy in 1966; he would be married to her for 58 years. Their firstborn child, Geoffrey, was born in 1968; their second-born, David, came three years later. Bob and Mary together purchased their house on Lake Massapoag—and never left. In Sharon, Bob and Mary had many lively moments with the ‘Gourmet Club’ surrounded by great friends such as the Bjorkholms and Skeltons—Bob sure always enjoyed a good time! Winter ski vacations in Canada, summer vacations in Wellfleet—always surrounded by family. He particularly valued spending time with his grandchildren—Reghan, Jackson, and Desmond—and watching them grow, learn, explore, and develop.

Bob pursued a Master’s Degree in Computer Science during his time at Raytheon. Later, following his retirement, he obtained a certificate as a Financial Planner. He later used this during his ‘second act’ when he was hired at Taylor Ganson & Perrin—and ended up single-handedly rewriting the computer program responsible for their billing!

Bob led a remarkably long, healthy, and active life. He was constantly busy with sports and activities such as tennis,golf, sailing, skating, and biking, and with chores or projects around the house. Most of all, however, he was a good, fair, encouraging, and loving father. As well, he was meticulous to the core, stubborn in the best possible way, workmanlike, methodical, and resolute—all the best qualities for a British engineer.

So—from his beginnings as a child during bombing raids near London to a peaceful end in his home in Sharon on a sparkling summer day with a view of the lake, accompanied by his family—Bob lived ‘a life in full.’ For that, his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends will be forever grateful.

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