Robert “Bob” McAllister 1929-2021

On Thursday, January 21, 2021, Robert “Bob” McAllister passed away at home with his family by his side at the age of 91.

Robert was born September 24, 1929 in the Bronx, New York to Robert F. and Mabel (Schmidt) McAllister.

He was a Sergeant First Class in the US Army. He fought in the Korean War and was the recipient of the Bronze Service Star. He received both his undergraduate (1955) and law degree (1959) from Boston College. He was a proud Eagle and loyal supporter of BC his whole life.

On November 29, 1958, he married the love of his life Eleanor (nee Mullane). They raised two daughters, Deirdre and Elizabeth.

He began his career as a labor lawyer at Dow Jones and was very proud of that time in his life. He was Vice-President of Labor Relations at the Sun Times/Daily News. From 1980-2015, Robert was a well-respected and admired arbitrator. He took his ethical and professional responsibilities seriously and valued his role as a mentor.

Robert was an athlete his entire life; in his youth he ran track, as an adult he was an avid tennis player and downhill skier. He loved to cook.

Robert was a lifelong subscriber to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and was always up for hearing live jazz. He loved relaxing in his garden and filled the house with roses. He kept up on current events and loved a good debate.

Robert is lovingly remembered by his wife of 63 years, Eleanor, and their daughters Deirdre (Mark) Levine and Elizabeth (John Williams) and grandson Carter McAllister Levine. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters Kathleen (Bob) Walker and Judith McAllister, his sister-in-law Margaret Laverty, and many beloved nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.