Write a commentRobert “Mac” Carolin McKinstry Jr., a lifelong resident of Oswego, New York, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2025, at the age of 82.
Born on September 27, 1942, in Oswego, he was the son of Robert Carolin McKinstry and Nancy Whitlock McKinstry.
A proud third-generation Oswegonian, Mac graduated from SUNY Oswego, attended graduate school, and dedicated his life to serving others. Over the course of his career, he worked as a teacher, psychologist, hospital administrator and volunteer before retiring from Oswego Hospital. His professional life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to helping those around him.
Mac was a devout Catholic whose faith gave him strength and purpose throughout his life. He immersed himself in his faith through service and participation in programs he cherished, such as the Spiritual Renewal Center in Syracuse. He was also a long-time member of Alcoholics Anonymous, where he gained and offered steadfast support to others on the path to sobriety.
Beyond his professional and spiritual endeavors, Mac had a deep love for music, particularly jazz, and was an avid reader. He found joy in the great outdoors through hiking and camping and treasured Saturday drives with his grandson Dakota.
He is predeceased not only by his parents, but by his brother Richard McKinstry and daughter Gretchen Wahrendorf.
He is survived by his wife Margaret (Peg) and his children: Robert Carolin McKinstry III and partner Kelly; Kelli McKinstry Woelfel and her husband Mark; Jennifer Rivera; and Trina Helmke with her partner John. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Meagan McKinstry, Katie & Bryan Myers, Chelsea Wahrendorf, Ron McKinstry, Bryan Woelfel, Andrew Mylkes, Caroline Woelfel, and Dakota Mylkes along with his nieces and nephews Rick Pitcher, Matt McKinstry and Emily McKinstry. Mac also leaves behind community of meaningful friendships built over 82 years.
Mac’s legacy of kindness, faith, contributions and dedication will forever be remembered by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 Friday, January 31, 2025, at Christ the Good Shepherd Church on East 5th Street in Oswego. Burial will be in St. Peter’s Cemetery, Oswego. Calliing hours will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 Thursday, at the Dain-Cullinan Funeral Home, 112 East Second Street in Oswego.
Contributions in his memory can be made to the Oswego chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous, the Syracuse Spiritual Renewal Center in Syracuse, or to Christ the Good Shepherd parish in Oswego.
