Robert "Bob" McDonnell

On the evening of December 29, 2016, this world lost one of the most beautiful and pure souls at the age of 61. Bob, FB to those who knew him, went with the Lord in peace surrounded by all who loved and cherished him after a courageous battle with cancer. He was a very strong person and he fought his battle extremely hard keeping most of his pain to himself. As one of the most positive individuals to grace this earth, he made the most of every moment. He was one of the most selfless beings, and put everyone before himself. He believed that laughter is the best medicine and he took every chance he could to put a smile on anyone's face. His love and passion for his family and friends was immeasurable and he was always there to lend a helping hand, even if it was not asked for. Bob was born here in Albuquerque and graduated from Manzano High School. He was employed by General Electric Healthcare for 33 years and his work family meant a lot to him. He had just retired in March and had many plans made. Bob had a great passion for sports and was always willing to try new things. He loved to hike, especially the peaks around Ouray, CO. He enjoyed running. He ran the La Luz Trail Run at least five times and loved playing a rowdy game of ping pong or beer pong. Bob played softball with The Worms and Los Guys, amongst a few others. He enjoyed playing sand volleyball with the Bumping Uglies and rode his bike wherever he could throughout the city of Albuquerque. Bob was a lover of music. He had a beautiful harmonious voice and sang with his band, The Corvairs and Last Call. He was learning the bass and also played a little harmonica. During the spring, summer and fall, Bob loved to spend time at the family lake house at Conchas Lake where he enjoyed relaxing, playing in the water, golfing, working on the property, bon fires and having family time. He enjoyed traveling and seeing new places, but home was really what he loved the best. He always said, "Why should we travel to exotic places, when we have a beautiful yard and a three ring pool for Caribbean Days?" Bob had a way with words. He was always making up his own words when the correct one just didn't express exactly how he felt.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Leslie; his four daughters, Meghan McDonnell, Ashley Stephenson (Zack), Gracie DeSoto (Jonathan) and Emily Nalewajk (Mark); and his grandchildren who knew him as "Bonka", Aiden, Brooklynn, Tyler, Piper and one more grandson due in April. He is also survived by his two sisters, Carol McDonnell and Cathi Hulett (Roger). The list of those whose lives he touched is infinite and he will be missed by all of those who loved him and had the pleasure to call him a friend. A special thank you to Gentiva Hospice.
A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, January 13, 2017, 10:00 a.m., at FRENCH - Wyoming.



FRENCH - Wyoming
7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE
(505) 823-9400