Robert W. Seward Sr.

GREAT BARRINGTON, MA - Robert W. Seward Sr., 88, of Gt. Barrington died Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Berkshire Medical Center after an accident at home.

Bob was born September 22, 1937, the son of William A. Seward and Gertrude Seward (née Kellogg). The eldest of six children, Bob attended local schools. He joined the Navy in 1955 and proudly served for 4 years, stationed on the aircraft carrier: USS Lake Champlain. Bob married Madaline A. Belanger of Lee on October 26, 1957. For many years, he worked as a machinist at the Clark-Aiken Co. Then in 1973, he along with his brother Steve, founded Seward's Tires Inc., where he worked until his retirement.

Bob was a true collector. He loved to roam flea markets and garage sales for antiques. Always the businessman, he would negotiate for the best deals. His home garage is fondly referred to as "the museum" for his vast collection of vintage signs, bar memorabilia, and automotive collectibles. It also served as a welcoming gathering place for any friends or family members to stop by for a visit with "Uncle B". He was a member of several local antique car clubs over the years and could often be found at area car shows with one of his treasured vehicles. After his retirement, he raced in a vintage car league, under Seward Motorsports #69. For more than 40 years, he wintered in Sarasota, FL where he made memories with countless friends he met there.

Bob will be remembered for his strong work-ethic, his sense of humor--particularly his quick-witted one-liners. A social butterfly, he was always out and about and could usually be found with a big, if slightly mischievous, grin. He had the energy of someone a quarter of his age and lived life to the fullest.

Bob is survived by his five sons: Bob Jr. (Pat), Steve, Bill (Maureen), Mike (Jan), and Andy (Betsy). He is also survived by 9 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, 4 siblings – Marlene Atwood, Betty Sermini, Steve (Mary) Seward, Joe (Maureen) Seward, sister-in-law Mary Coty and many extended family and beloved friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Billy, his wife of 61 years, Mal, and great-grandson, Owen.

The family of Robert W. Seward, Sr. will receive friends on Thursday, July 23, 2026 from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home in Great Barrington.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 24th 2026, at 12 noon, graveside in St. Mary’s Cemetery, 220 Spring St., Lee, MA

Donations in his memory may be made to the Great Barrington VFW Building and Grounds Fund c/o Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home, 426 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230. To send remembrances to his family please go to https://www.finnertyandstevens.com/obituaries/bob-seward-sr