Robert F. Regan, a lifelong resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. He was 79.

Bob was born in Melrose on July 3, 1946, the youngest of three children of the late James and Gertrude (Smith) Regan. He was raised in Melrose and graduated from Melrose High School with the Class of 1964. On February 14, 1969, he married the love of his life, Susan E. Guarente. Together, they made their home in Melrose, where they raised their two sons, Jim and Tom. Bob was, above all else, a devoted family man.

Following his service in the United States Army, Bob worked for many years in the heating and plumbing supply industry with Standard of Lynn before later spending several years in the trucking industry. During the years he and Sue were raising their sons, Bob was actively involved in the Melrose Boy Scouts, serving as a Scoutmaster, and formed lasting friendships as a member and Past President of the Melrose High Bandaiders.

Bob found his greatest peace and happiness with his family, especially during time spent at the family cottage on Goose Rocks Beach in Maine. If Sue was happy, Bob was happy, and more often than not that meant a trip to Maine for a long walk on the beach. His devotion to Sue was unwavering, and he took great joy in supporting her in every way. He delighted in being present for his sons and later his grandchildren, rarely missing a soccer game, dance recital, or basketball game.

With a sensitive heart, Bob was always ready to offer his unconditional support to those who needed it. He held his Irish heritage close to his heart and found strength and comfort in his Catholic faith. He was a devoted parishioner of Incarnation Church and St. Mary’s Church in Melrose, where his faith remained an important part of his life.

Bob’s steadfast devotion to his family, especially his beloved Sue, was the defining hallmark of his life. He will be deeply missed, but his love, and loyalty to family will continue to live on in the hearts of his sons and seven grandchildren.

Bob was the beloved husband of the late Susan E. (Guarente) Regan with whom he shared 51 years of marriage. Devoted father of James P. Regan and his wife Leea of Melrose, and Thomas M. Regan and his wife Valerie of Melrose. Dear brother of Carole Regan of Melrose, the late John E. Smith, the late J. Peter Regan and his surviving wife Mary Jo of Melrose, and brother-in-law of Bill Guarente of Acton. Loving grandfather of Katie, Caroline, Samantha, Denis, Susan, Erin, and Brigid. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather in Bob’s memory during Visiting Hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Wednesday, Feb. 4 from 3-7pm, and again on Thursday, Feb. 5 at 9am, before leaving in procession to St. Mary’s Church, Herbert St., for his Funeral Mass celebrated at 10am. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Donations in Bob’s name may be made to St. Mary’s School, 4 Myrtle St., Melrose MA 02176.