Robert "Bob" Judson, Sr. ("Bunka")

Robert “Bob” Joseph Judson Sr., affectionately known as “Bunka” to many in Merrimac, Massachusetts, passed away on October 25, 2026, at the age of 62.

Bob was born on June 5, 1964, in Everett, Massachusetts, to Clifton and Jeanne (Waterman) Judson.

While attending Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School, he met the love of his life, Kathleen Malone. Following graduation with the Class of 1982, the two quickly married and began building a life together that would span 44 wonderful years.

After graduation, Bob proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a MOS 63 Whiskey (Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic) stationed at Fort Richardson, Alaska. During his military service, he also had the honor of being a member of the All-Army Rifle Team.

Bob spent most of his career as a heavy equipment truck driver, working for companies including New England Precast, Enpro, Grabel Van Lines, Pynn Masonry, and Shea Concrete. For many years, he also dedicated himself to serving his community as a call firefighter for the Town of Merrimac.

Beyond his devotion to family, Bob’s greatest passion was bringing joy to others by helping the man in the big red suit, Santa Claus. Chances are, if you attended an event in or around Merrimac, Bob’s smiling face is captured somewhere in your family photo album or hanging on a refrigerator door. His kindness, generosity, and holiday spirit touched countless lives.

Bob loved the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, camping, attending car races, or driving anything with an engine through the woods. He also enjoyed relaxing with a good old Western on television.

Bob leaves behind his beloved wife of 44 years, Kathleen (Malone) Judson of Merrimac, Massachusetts. He will be deeply missed by his two sons: Robert “Bobby” Judson Jr. and his wife, Jeanne Judson, of Danville, New Hampshire, along with their children, Kayley, Thomas, Ivy, Robby, Kelsey, and Mikayla; and Christopher Judson and his wife, Jessica Judson, of Amesbury, Massachusetts, along with their children, Madeline, Gabriella, and Vincent. Bob’s newest pride and joy was his great-granddaughter, Paisley.

He is also survived by his mother, Jeanne (Waterman) Judson of Merrimac, Massachusetts. As the oldest of four children, Bob shared a special bond with his siblings: Mark Judson and his wife, Marilyn; Tracy Webster and her husband, Brian; and Clifton “CJ” Judson and his wife, Kate. Bob also cherished the many foster children welcomed into his childhood family over the years and considered them brothers and sisters. He leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and more friends than could ever be counted.

Bob’s legacy of kindness, service, laughter, and community spirit will live on in all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Bob’s memory to a local charity in Merrimac, ie: Merrimac Santa Parade Committee, Merrimac Hose company #1, the Veterans Luncheon at the New Old Oak in Merrimac, or Merrimac PTO Holiday Helper.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at Paul C. Rogers Family Funeral Home, 2 Hillside Avenue, Amesbury, MA 01913 from 4 to 8 P.M. A Memorial Service will be held at the Funeral Home on Friday, November 6, 2026 at 11 A.M. followed by a Graveside Service at Locust Grove Cemetery Veterans Section, 2 Locust Grove Road, Merrimac, MA with Military Honors. May he rest in Eternal Peace Forever.