Obituary of Robert Ernest McKinlay
McKinlay: Robert Ernest -
A resident of Chatham, Robert "Rob" McKinlay passed away unexpectedly at the Windsor Regional Hospital - Ouellette Campus surrounded by family on June 26, 2025 at the age of 57.
Born in Chatham, Robert was the son of Ileen Caron (née Wilson) and the late Robert "Bob" McKinlay.
Beloved husband of 35 years to Tammy (née Schmeltz).
Loving father to Brandi (Aarron) and Shelby (Cody).
Caring brother to Randy (Rai-Ann) McKinlay, Barb (David) Van Eyk, and Jimmy Tofflemire.
Brother-in-law to Chris Schmeltz.
He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends.
Rob loved stock car racing and enjoyed being in the garage building racecars. He loved spending quality time and joking around with his family and friends. Rob expressed himself through all kinds of music, which he always listened to along with his children and wife. His family was the most important part of his life. He adored his mother (Ileen) and mother and father-in-law (Donna and Randy Schmeltz). Rob will be met at the gates of Heaven by his father and many friends.
Family to receive friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Thursday July 3, 2025 from 11:30am until the Funeral Service at 1:30pm. Burial to follow in Maple Leaf Cemetery.
Donations made in memory of Robert to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040
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Ridgetown: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-397
Blenheim: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-41
Chatham: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-174
Nathan McKinlay is in charge of day-to-day operations in Chatham.
Jeff Mardling is in charge of day-to-day operations in Blenheim & Ridgetown.
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