Robert Dennis Toland

Robert Dennis Toland of Pembroke, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on March 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was 86 years old.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Patricia Toland (Shea), and their four children: Ann Taylor of Hanover, Massachusetts; Colleen Meade and her husband Joseph Meade of Hanson, Massachusetts; Bridget Baker and her husband Robert Baker of Whitman, Massachusetts; and Brian Toland and his fiancée Maureen O'Shea of Nanuet, New York. He was a proud and devoted Papa to ten grandchildren: Kyleigh Taylor, Shannon Taylor, Morgan Taylor, Caci Taylor, Bryan Meade, Lauryn Meade, Isabelle Baker, Bobby Baker, Maggie Toland, and Sean Toland. He is also survived by his siblings: Father Eugene Toland of North Eastham, John Toland of Kingston, Massachusetts, Linda Vogel of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Susan Mullin of Quincy, Massachusetts. He was predeceased by his brother Richard Toland of Kingston, Massachusetts.

Born in Charlestown, Massachusetts, to the late Dennis and Anne Toland (McKinnon), Robert proudly served in the United States Air Force before becoming a dedicated firefighter with the Boston Fire Department. He often recalled his years riding the Huntington Ave Express and later serving on Ladder 6 in Peabody Square. He enjoyed playing the harmonica and chanter, frequently entertaining family and friends with Irish rebel songs. An active man, he maintained a daily five-mile walking or running loop in Pembroke for many years and found joy in kayaking, cross-country skiing, gardening, and tending to his beautifully landscaped yard. An avid reader, he instilled a love of books in his children and grandchildren.

Robert cherished the time he and Patricia spent at their cabin in Vermont. Above all, family remained the heart of his life. He treasured vacations on the Cape, visits to Marshfield, camping trips, and simple gatherings at home by the pool with his children and grandchildren. These moments brought him lasting joy and will remain cherished memories for all who loved him. He will be deeply missed.