Robert H. McAdams

Robert Howard "Bob" McAdams, 81, of Bradford, passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Olean General Hospital.

Born January 5, 1944, he was the son of the late Donald B. and Jean L. (Xander) McAdams.

Bob was a 1962 graduate of Bradford High School.

On April 8, 1967, he married Marcia Susan (Spencer) McAdams who survives.

Bob enjoyed a career in sales and marketing for several companies throughout his life.  He worked for Dresser Manufacturing, Goodman Pipe Company, Newman Oil Company, McCourt Label, Rink Brothers Chrysler and Shults Automotive Group.  He most enjoyed working in the automotive industry as he had a passion for anything that had to do with cars.

Bob served in the Army National Guard from 1967 to 1971 in the 728th Maintenance Battalion and in 1968 he received commendations as a Specialist 4th Class.  He also completed welding training while in the Army National Guard.

He was a member of the Bradford Jaycees Organization, First United Methodist Church, member and Past Master in 2000, of the Bradford Union Lodge #749 F&AM, and the Coudersport Consistory.

He was a drummer throughout his whole life and enjoyed almost all types of music immensely.  His first band that he was in after high school was called The Caravans. Just last Thursday he was practicing in Coudersport with the band R.S.V.P.

Bob was a lifelong learner and inquisitive person. He enjoyed all things cars, motorcycles and motorsports in general.  He enjoyed all car racing including NASCAR and Formula 1 Racing and had the opportunity to attend the Indianapolis 500 with his cousins, which was a highlight of his life. 

He enjoyed hunting and the outdoors, loved National and State Parks and as an avid fly fisherman, tied his own flies.

He enjoyed bicycles and bicycling and watched the Tour de France religiously every year.

He also had a passion and ease for photography and was always enlisted to take the group photo for every family milestone and get-together. 

Bob was an avid collector.  His collections of model cars, cameras, radios, watches, pens, pencils, zippo lighters and hats are unmatched. 

He enjoyed making art with colored pencils and practicing handwriting and calligraphy.

But most of all, he enjoyed life with his wife of 58 years, Marcia and was proud of his three children, their spouses and five grandchildren, often being the first one to comment on “accomplishments” posted in the McAdams Clan group text.  He also loved his many pets throughout his life including his current dog Jenna and three cats, Bella, Frankie and Parker. 

Surviving in addition to his wife Marcia of 58 years, is one daughter, Heidi (Cesar) Pernia, of Reigelsville, PA, two sons, Mark (Evan) McAdams-Templeton, of Pittsburgh, PA and Jason (Michelle) McAdams, of Salt Lake City, UT,  two sisters, Dianna (Patrick) McQueeney, of Utica NY, and Deborah (the late Joe) Webster of Westfield IN, five grandchildren: Nolan Pernia, Zachary Pernia, Jack McAdams, Elle McAdams and Michael McAdams.  As well as cherished nieces and nephews and their spouses.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, and brother-in-law Joseph Webster.

Family will receive friends on Friday September 19, 2025, from 4 pm to 7 pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc. 33 South Avenue, where a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday at 10:00 am. Burial will be in Otto Township Cemetery, Duke Center.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to NFLB; No Feline Left Behind of McKean County, or the charity of the donor's choice.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

 

HOLLENBECK-CAHILL Funeral Home

33 South Avenue • Bradford, PA 16701

All Condolences -

My condolence to the family. Bob also played drums in my late husband''s band Stan Austin and The Country Pioneers He gave us many great moments and laughs
— Barbara J Austn

Marcia and family we are so sorry for your loss. We pray God''s comfort during this difficult time
— Karen Sherwin

Marcia, I am thinking of you and your family as I have many times over the years. I am saddened by the passing of "Mr. McAdams" Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
— Wendy(Buck) Hyde ( former neighbor/babysitter!

My late husband Bill and I enjoyed many visits with Bob and his family over the past 25 years in Pittsburgh, Bradford, and points between, especially dining by the river in Foxburg. Bob had an amazing variety of interests and accomplishments. Bill and I were fortunate to share in good times with Bob and Marcia and the extended families. May memories and photos give peace and pleasure.
— Bonnie Craig

May God Bless and comfort you and your family during this difficult period, please accept my sincere condolences. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
— Anna Piskorska

Condolences

  • My condolence to the family. Bob also played drums in my late husband''s band Stan Austin and The Country Pioneers He gave us many great moments and laughs

    — Barbara J Austn
  • Marcia and family we are so sorry for your loss. We pray God''s comfort during this difficult time

    — Karen Sherwin
  • Marcia, I am thinking of you and your family as I have many times over the years. I am saddened by the passing of "Mr. McAdams" Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

    — Wendy(Buck) Hyde ( former neighbor/babysitter!
  • My late husband Bill and I enjoyed many visits with Bob and his family over the past 25 years in Pittsburgh, Bradford, and points between, especially dining by the river in Foxburg. Bob had an amazing variety of interests and accomplishments. Bill and I were fortunate to share in good times with Bob and Marcia and the extended families. May memories and photos give peace and pleasure.

    — Bonnie Craig
  • May God Bless and comfort you and your family during this difficult period, please accept my sincere condolences. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

    — Anna Piskorska