Robert J. Desmond, 73 years old, a lifelong resident of Lowell, died unexpectedly Friday evening, October 15, at his home in Lowell.
Born in Boston on July 18, 1937, he was a son of the late Frederick H. and Alice I. (Gorman) Desmond and was educated in the Lowell schools. He was a graduate of Lowell High School and Boston College where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree.
Mr. Desmond was a graduate of Officers Candidate School in Quantico, VA and served as an Infantry Officer in the United States Marine Corps. Following his tour of duty with the Marines, Mr. Desmond worked in various financial institutions to include being Vice President of Union National Bank and Executive Vice President of the Lowell Bank and Trust Company. Later, he was employed as a staff member to Congressman Paul W. Cronin in Washington and Massachusetts. Mr. Desmond served on the Boards of Directors of numerous corporations, civic and fraternal organizations including Massachusetts Banker’s Consumer Credit Committee, the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce, the United Fund, March of Dimes and the Greater Lowell Mental Health Association. In his early years, Mr. Desmond enjoyed playing golf at both Vesper and Long Meadow and participated in City Golf Tournaments representing both Country Clubs. Mr. Desmond was a life long parishioner of the Immaculate Conception Church.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Gailanne (Ralls) Desmond of Lowell; two sons, Mark D. Desmond of Lowell and Erik F. Desmond and his wife Mary of Pepperell; a daughter Robin A. Desmond and her husband Christopher Radzik of Lowell; a dear grandson, Thomas Radzik of Lowell; a brother in law, Thomas J. Ralls and his wife Juanita of Tucson, AZ; five nephews and dear friends Byron and Suzie Vlahakis of Dracut.
DESMOND- Relatives and friends may call on Wednesday Oct. 20, from 4 until 8 pm at the MAHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 187 NESMITH ST.(Rte.38). His Funeral Mass will be offered on Thursday, Oct. 21, at 9:00 at the Immaculate Conception Church (Lower Church) followed by burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Tewksbury. Should friends desire donations in his memory may be made to the Lowell Humane Society, 951 Broadway Street, Lowell, MA. 01854. Arrangements are by the MAHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 187 NESMITH STREET, LOWELL,MA.