Robert J.

McMullen

Robert J. McMullen, Sr., 71, a longtime funeral director in Monroe, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 7, 2026, in the comfort of his home.

Bob was born on June 21, 1955, in Monroe to Edward “Bud” and Germaine (Gardner) McMullen. He married Marian Lynne Krall on June 26, 1976, at Regina Coeli Parish in Toledo, Ohio. Together, they raised two children.

A lifelong member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Bob attended St. Mary’s Elementary School before graduating from Monroe High School in 1973. He went on to earn an Associate of Science degree from Monroe County Community College and completed his education in Mortuary Science at Wayne State University in 1976. He became a licensed funeral director and began a career dedicated to serving families in the Monroe community. For many years, Bob also aided the Monroe County Medical Examiner, assisting in postmortem examinations. Over the next four decades, Bob touched countless lives through his work before taking medical retirement in 2011.

Outside of his career, Bob found joy in the simple things and, most importantly, in time spent with family. He was a lifelong baseball fan. As a young boy, his idol was Rocky Colavito, and he treasured memories of attending doubleheaders with his father and siblings. Growing up, Bob was convinced he would one day play for the Detroit Tigers. For a short time, his family even called him “Rocky.”

Bob also loved to fish, creating countless memories with his children fishing in Virginia. He had a love for Motown and the Beach Boys, and road trips with his kids often turned into singalongs to all the oldies. He enjoyed cooking and, even more, feeding the people he loved. Whether sharing a meal, enjoying music, talking baseball, or riding his John Deere to mow the lawn, Bob found happiness in the familiar moments that made life special.

Bob was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, the Michigan Funeral Directors Association, Monroe Council 1266 Knights of Columbus, Monroe Moose Lodge 884, and a lifetime member of the Monroe County Rod and Gun Club.

Surviving are his daughter, Shannon McMullen of Chicago, Illinois; his son, Robert (Adelina) McMullen of Chicago, Illinois; his sister, Elizabeth “Beth” Lommerse of Monroe; sister-in-law, Deborah “Debby” McMullen of Roanoke, VA, his granddaughters, Viviana and Maya; his nieces and nephews and several great nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas McMullen, and his brother-in-law, Robert Lommerse.

Memorial donations in Bob’s memory may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Family and friends may visit from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, November 13, at Bacarella Funeral Home, where a scripture service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Bob will lie in state at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 14, at St. Mary Catholic Church. The Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated by the church pastor, Rev. Fr. David Burgard at 12 p.m.

Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com