HAINES CITY - Dr. Robert V. McGuire passed away at Haines City Health Care Center on November 12, 2007 at the age of 79 of renal failure. He was born and raised in Chicago, IL. Graduated high school from Messiah Academy in Grantham, PA where he continued his piano and organ studies. Pursuing his education at the University of Chicago, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree. In his long musical career, "Dr. Bob" served as organist and choirmaster at many churches in both Illinois and Florida. Some of his "hands on" interests included restoring pianos and rebuilding pipe organs.
After moving to this area from St. Petersburg, he was organist and choirmaster at the United Methodist Church of Lake Alfred and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and School in Winter Haven where he also taught in the classroom. His last position was organist and choirmaster at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Haines City where he served 11 years until his retirement early in 2002.
Two local organizations close to Dr. McGuire's heart were the Messiah Association of Polk County and The Bach Festival of Central Florida. He was on both Boards and authored their program notes for many years. He has been a lifelong member of The American Guild of Organists.
His father Valentine, mother Helen, and sister Lorraine have predeceased him. He will be missed by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and his trusted friend, Jeanette Stokes.
Memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2007 at 10 a.m. at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Haines City, FL. In Lieu of flowers contributions may be made to St. Mark's Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 1810, Haines City, FL 33845 or to Good shepherd hospice 105 Arneson Ave., Auburndale, Fl 33823. Condolences may be sent via www.oakridgefuneralcare.com
