Associated General Contractors of NYS — Harold Robert McElwain, age 81, passed away on Jan. 13, 2018 upon succumbing to pneumonia complications during a short hospital stay in Bradenton, FL. He was born on Feb. 26, 1936 to the late Harold Robert McElwain and Hilda Seeberger McElwain.

Bob was married to Rosemary Boehlert, the absolute love of his life, for 58 wonderful years. After retiring as an RN caring for elderly patients in a skilled nursing facility for over 30 years, Rosemary devoted her life to nurturing her husband and through the Grace of God helped Bob live a delightful and active life as long as he did. He survived a bout with cancer in 2002, and based on his family history, he never thought he would live to see 81 years.

He knew he was blessed to have such a loving, caring and devoted wife. They have a home and many friends at Cedar Lake (NY) Golf Club, where he was a member and avid golfer for over 50 years. Bob and Rosemary escaped cold and snowy Upstate New York winters to their home in Bradenton, FL.

Bob had a tremendous sense of humor and was a very trusted, honorable, loyal and respected man. He was often heard reiterating how proud he was of his family, and he so loved to talk about the accomplishments of each and every one of his children and grandchildren.

After Bob was honorably discharged from the US Army, he continued to serve in the US Army Reserve, and began working as a union carpenter for his Uncle Rod, President of John J Harvey Construction, which ultimately became Murnane Building Contractors. He was very grateful to the Murnane family for their committed and continued support up to and beyond the day he retired as Vice President in 2001 and until his last day of life. He was also honored to have mentored Jim Hogel, Tim Link and Andy Kantor and was proud when Jim assumed management responsibility of the local Murnane office. He loved to share his accomplishments and would point out the large-scale commercial construction projects he managed for Murnane throughout Central New York. His legacy is perpetuated for years to come in these beautiful and architecturally incredible landmarks including many on the Colgate University and Hamilton College campuses.

During five decades in the construction industry Bob and Rosemary were fortunate to enjoy many friendships. He was active on the Board of Directors for various industry organizations, labor unions and the Mohawk Valley Builders Exchange.

A Celebration of Life memorial service was held on Jan. 27 in Chadwicks, NY.