Robert MacLachlan Obituary

Robert MacLachlan, 85, of Williamsburg, died peacefully on October 17 after a short illness. He was surrounded by his family. He was a much beloved father, grandfather, clinical psychologist, professor, mentor, and trusted friend to many students, children, and those in need. He greatly valued people, and importantly, the insights, intelligence and humor of children. Their humor inspired his humor.

His family has acknowledged the many heartfelt responses of those he helped. "He saved many lives," a friend said. Born July 13, 1930 in Mansfield, Massachusetts, he was the son of Marjorie (Snyder) MacLachlan and Robert F. MacLachlan, Sr. In addition to his wife Patricia (Pritzkau) MacLachlan, he leaves behind three children, son John and daughter-in-law Karen Zwick of Williamsburg, Ma.; son Jamie and daughter-in-law Lauren of Plymouth, Ma and daughter Emily Charest and son-in-law Dean Charest of Stow, Ma. He especially adored his grandchildren Sofia, Ella, Nicholas, Harry, Anna and Lucy. He also leaves a brother Peter, of Hamilton, Montana. His brother Bruce died in 2005. He also leaves many devoted nieces and nephews.

Bob graduated from Brown University after serving in army counter-intelligence during the Korean War. He earned a PhD in Psychology from the University of Connecticut. He worked in a child guidance clinic before opening a private practice. He taught for many years at American International College where he also counseled students. A keen ornithologist, Bob often led bird survey studies and travelled extensively to see birds and the natural world. After his retirement, he created astounding gardens and specialized in Hostas where he kept hundred of species. His gardens are often visited and always seem to be in bloom. He was an art collector, enjoying the work of local artist friends and of artists as far away as Africa and Nepal where he traveled. A lifelong music lover, he loved opera and played viola in the Pioneer Valley Orchestra. He was an avid reader and did not believe there was such a thing as owning too many books. He was a renaissance man who possessed a wicked sense of humor.

A memorial service will be held on November 7th, at 1 pm at the Friends Meeting house, 43 Center St. Northampton. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Safe Passage in Northampton, Ma.

Published in The Republican from Oct. 21 to Oct. 23, 2015