Robert E. "Bob" McDonald, Sr.

Robert E. “Bob” McDonald, Sr., 92, of Chambersburg, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Menno haven Brookview Healthcare Center. Born June 6, 1933, in Chambersburg, he was a son of the late William P. McDonald, Sr., and Elizabeth “Eva” Cramer McDonald.

Early in his life, Bob was employed as a machinist with the Pennsylvania Railroad. He was later employed with TBJ in Chambersburg until he retired in 2002, and was the owner/operator of Bob’s Friendly Tavern, in Chambersburg, for 13 years. Bob was a member of the Chambersburg Club, VFW Post 1599, the Marine Corps League, and various other organizations and clubs in the Chambersburg area. Bob was an avid Penn State fan. He enjoyed spending time with his great grandchildren and supporting them.

He is survived by two grandchildren, Robert McDonald III and wife Erica of Chambersburg, PA; Jennifer Drake and husband Jason of Chambersburg, PA; five great grandchildren, Robert McDonald IV, Jayeleigh Drake, Eli McDonald, Jaedyn Drake and Jacetyn Drake; and numerous nieces and nephews. Aside from his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his son, Robert McDonald, Jr., former wife and friend, Charlotte (Shope) McDonald; four brothers, Charles McDonald, Jack “Suds” McDonald, William “Mope” McDonald, and Richard “Wimp” McDonald; and three sisters, Peggy Reynolds, Betty Kennedy, and Bonnie McDonald.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 11:30 AM in the Chapel of Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA with Rev. Dr. A. Robert Cook officiating. Interment will be in Lincoln Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm – 8:00 PM on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 on at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Thursday from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.