Eight Bells: Bob Monro Jr.

Bob Monro Jr. passed away the last week of February 2026. He was 87 years old.

Born in New York, he learned so much of how to work with his hands from his Dad and developed a deep love of sailing from his parents which led him to graduate from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. He was an engineer and business owner in the power plant industry.

He competed in 25 Bermuda races, two on winning boats Congere and Spindrift. He was a member of the Morris Yacht Club, LYC, Stamford Yacht Club and the Storm Trysail Club. He loved his boats from the 110, in the 60s to his J/120 Bye Bye Blues.

He faced life squarely, and went at it full force. He loved the water all his life; he competed at the highest levels for decades.

Bob lived life fast forward, with focus and drive. He was a good and honest man, helpful and generous to his friends. He had high standards and no time for BS— he had too much to do—He was a loving husband, a proud father and grandfather, a problem solver and a top notch competitive sailor all his life.

He married his City Island sweetheart and fellow sailor Kathy, in 1960 and they raised two children and enjoyed many years of sailing adventures with them during sixty six years of marriage. They lived in New Rochelle and then in Darien where he was fortunate to have such wonderful and caring neighbors and friends. Bob was always ready and capable to help his family and friends in an emergency.

He leaves behind his wife, Kathy, his son Bob (wife Fran, children Julia, Johanna, and Ian); Daughter Pam Strom (husband Barry, daughter Natalia Neneman and her husband Tommy and son Jay); sister Linda Dickinson and nephews Gary Jr. and Scott.