Robert (Bob) McAlister, 86, of Hillcrest, NY, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Lucille McAlister; his beloved wife of 66 years, Maureen; his in-laws, Michael and Helen Barvinchak; and his younger brother, James, who made the ultimate sacrifice serving his country in Vietnam.

He is survived by his three sons, Kirk, Eric and Scott; his grandchildren, Melissa, Megan, Lyndsie, Matthew and Elizabeth; and his great-grandchildren, Sylas, Sterling and Vera. He is also survived by his sister, Jean Sierzant, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Bob served with pride as a New York State Police officer for 22 years — a career defined by dedication and service, distinguished by numerous awards for exceptional acts of bravery. Among his proudest moments on the job was the chance to work security at the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympics, where he was present for one of the greatest upsets in sports history: the U.S. hockey team's unforgettable victory over the Soviet Union — the Miracle on Ice.

He enjoyed spending time with his sons and attending their sporting events. In his earlier years, he found his greatest peace outdoors: fishing in quiet waters, hunting through the seasons, tending his garden, and peaceful walks in the woods.

As the years passed, his pleasures shifted to the simple joys of auctions and flea markets shared with his wife Maureen, and to the quiet joy of watching birds visit his feeders through every season. There was always a book within reach and a game on television, and he remained a devoted, and unwavering fan of the Boston Red Sox, Dallas Cowboys, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and Boston Bruins to the very end.

In his own words, he had a "full, active, and interesting life — mostly enjoyable" and would do it all the same again if possible.

So would we. Every laugh, every story, we would choose it all again.

In lieu of flowers, Bob's wish was for support to be directed to the Red Sox Foundation.

A Funeral Mass will be offered at St. Patrick's Church, corner of Oak and Leroy Streets, Binghamton, Friday May 29, 2026 at 11 a.m. Entombment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at St. Patrick's Church, Friday May 29 from 9:45 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. The Mass will be live streamed at www.sta-sp.org