Robert MacDonald's Obituary
Robert “Sparky” MacDonald passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 28, at the age of 74, after a courageous battle with kidney disease, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carole; beloved daughters, Kelly Anne and Courtney; grandson, Nathan—his greatest joy; and loving sister, Susan Burkhardt. He was predeceased in life by his parents, Thomas and Alice, of Highland Lakes, NJ.
Raised in Wood-Ridge, NJ, Robert proudly served as a volunteer firefighter among various towns in Northern New Jersey. Professionally, he worked as a dedicated public servant for the U.S. Postal Service for over 30 years. With a strong value of service, he enjoyed giving back and engaging with his local community.
Sparky was a friend to many, bringing laughter and kindness to everyone he met with his bright personality. He retired in 2015 and moved to Florida with his wife. His beloved hobby of collecting fire department memorabilia, started with one Mickey Mouse fire truck from Disney World and now amasses thousands of items, including historic badges & fire equipment, statues and books about the founding of departments from around the country. He loved a good cigar, a weekend flea market and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
A Celebration of Life will be held later this spring in Palm Coast, FL, and North Jersey. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association or the Palm Coast Firefighters Benevolent Fund.
He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered…until we meet again in Heaven.
Heritage Funeral and Cremation Service located in Bunnell Florida are in charge of the arrangements.
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