Robert McDonnell, veteran, retired airport superintendent

Robert “Bob” McDonnell, 88, of Millsboro, formerly of Northeast Philadelphia, Pa., passed away Wednesday, July 23, 2024, at Thomas Jefferson Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa.

Bob was born in Philadelphia, Pa., Feb. 3, 1936, son of the late James McDonnell and the late Gertrude (Smythe) McDonnell.  He graduated from North Catholic High School and then went and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and the National Guard. Bob retired as an airport superintendent for the Northeast and Philadelphia International Airport in 1998 after 25 years of service.  

Bob was the former president of the Northeast Rotary in Philadelphia, Pa., and was the former president of Long Neck Village Homeowners Association after moving to Delaware. He was also a parishioner at Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church in Millsboro, where he served as an usher. Bob and his wife, Dolores, enjoyed traveling, especially taking cruises where they were fortunate enough to take 27 of them.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James McDonnell; and a sister, Margaret Ann Weiler. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Dolores G. (Foley) McDonnell; a son, Robert McDonnell Jr. and his wife Deborah of Osceola Mills, Pa; a daughter, Dolores Ann “Lori” McDonnell of Philadelphia, Pa.; four grandchildren, Alexis, Justin, MiKayla and Paige McDonnell; and several nieces and nephews.  

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 29, at Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church, 30839 Mt. Joy Road, Millsboro, where friends and family may call after 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Dagsboro.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Bob’s name to Mid-Sussex Rescue Squad, 31738 Indian Mission Road, Millsboro, DE 19966.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.