WESTFIELD – Robert W. Pike, Jr., 81, (1939-2020) passed away peacefully at home Easter Sunday with his wife of 62 years by his side. He suffered with several health issues. He was born in Springfield in January, 1939 to the late Robert W. Pike, Sr. and June (Taylor) Pike. He attended Springfield schools, graduated from Technical High School in 1956, and furthered his education at American International College. Bob married his high school and DeMolay sweetheart, Julie A. MacNayr, in 1958. He lived in Springfield with his family until they built a home in Montgomery in 1975, and was a member of the Foster Memorial Church (Springfield) for many years. He was very proud of his Scottish and Scotch-Irish heritage, serving many years on the Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival committee. Bob’s early employment was with Friendly Ice Cream as a manager trainee, and later owned Golden Star restaurant in Springfield. Bob retired from his company, Lifeguard Security Systems (1973-2002), having also served as president of the Western Mass. Alarm Association and director of the Massachusetts Burglar and Fire Alarm Association. He served the Town of Montgomery as Town Moderator, Special Police, Board of Appeals (including Chairman), Fire Department/First Responder, Right-to-Farm Committee, Civic Association, and Historical Society. Always a dog-lover, as the Town’s Dog Officer he developed a deep sympathy for homeless or suffering canines. His family re-homed many dogs over the years; his latest companion was Molly, a Sheltie-Pomeranian mix. Bob found joy in nature and grew gladiolas and dahlias to sell and show, winning many awards with his glads. He established Pike’s Peak Christmas Tree Farm in the late ‘70’s where he enjoyed growing and pruning trees and hosting families as they chose “that special tree” over the years. He also enjoyed singing – in church choirs, the Greater Westfield Choral Association, and the Festival Chorus of Westfield (including three appearances at Carnegie Hall). Bob loved trips to Good Harbor Beach and visits to extended family in Gloucester. He was proud to watch his grandchildren participate in sports and in school music concerts. Bob was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Philip H. Pike (2008), his brother-in-law Russell I. MacNayr (2003), and Julie’s parents, Loyd and Gladys MacNayr. In addition to his wife, Bob is survived by his three dear children and their spouses: Robert W. III and Amy Pike in McPherson, KS; Laura (Pike) and Daniel Flechsig in Montgomery; and Melissa (Pike) and Albert Wilder in Lebanon, CT. He also leaves eight cherished grandchildren plus step-grandchildren, and nine+ great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and their families, and several cousins. A celebration of his life will be scheduled when travel restrictions are lifted and gatherings are allowed. In his memory, the family suggests donations to Shriners Hospital, 516 Carew Street, Springfield 01104; Foster Memorial Church, UCC, 1791 Wilbraham Road, Springfield 01119; or Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival, P.O. 86, Blandford, MA 01008, a 501c3 corporation. “Rest in Peace, Dear One.” Firtionadams.com
