May 8, 1944 ~ June 12, 2022
W. Robert Keating “Bob” of Reading passed away June 12, 2022. Beloved husband of the late Diane-Marie (Carriere) Keating. Loving companion of Kathy Costello. Devoted father of Michelle Benjamin and her husband Edward, Lynne Volz and her husband Trevor and Matthew Keating and his wife Bethany. Cherished grandfather of Nicole, Robbie, Lainey, Sophia, Westley and Sara. Dear brother of Paul Keating and the late Ellen Stanton. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Bob was born and raised in Lynn, MA, where he attended St. Mary’s School. He met Diane at UMass Amherst and then attended UMaine Orono for Graduate School. In 1971 he moved to Reading, MA to raise his family and remained there for the rest of his life. Bob held many prestigious positions over his long career; most notably, he was Commissioner of the MA Department of Public Utilities for over 11 years. In retirement, he loved playing with his grandchildren and watching them grow. Bob was an avid reader, loved playing golf and cards with his friends. Above all, he loved spending time with family. He always had a funny joke, story, or something witty to say. Bob was friendly, kind, and the most generous human being. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends, but memories will live on forever in our hearts.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass in St. Athanasius Church, 300 Haverhill St., Reading on Friday, June 17th at 12 noon. Visiting hours will be at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (Corner of Park St. and Rte. 28) North Reading at the Reading line on Thursday, June 16th from 3-7pm. In lieu of flowers donations in Bob’s memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Interment in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Reading.
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