Robert Francis McAlevy III, known as “Bob,” died July 15, 2017. He was 84.
Born and raised in Hoboken, New Jersey, he later embraced Hampton Bays as home. After graduation from Stevens Institute of Technology, Mr. McAlevy went on to receive his doctorate in aeronautical engineering from Princeton University. An avid fisherman, naturalist, and conservationist, he constantly sought to help “save what’s left,” supporting local environmental and civic groups on the East End.
Mr. McAlevy’s fondest wish was to see a United Ireland—yet to be accomplished. Tiocfaidh Ar La, which translates to, our day will come, he often said. Early in his professional career at Stevens, he became the youngest-ever full professor in the mechanical engineering department, where he also directed a research lab. During his tenure, Mr. McAlevy consulted with NATO/AGARD, NASA, ONERA (French aeronautics agency), United States Air Force, United States Department of Energy National Labs at Lawrence Livermore, Argonne, Brookhaven, among others, and received many awards and accolades in recognition of his extensive research. Through the years, his interests ranged from combustion science, rocket solid propellants, hydrogen fuel, electric autos, ion batteries, energy storage and more. Survivors said Mr. McAlevy truly loved his chosen field of engineering and teaching.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; a brother, Dennis; and their families and friends.
A scholarship has been established at Mr. McAlevy’s alma mater. Donations may be made to the Dr. Robert F. McAlevy III ’54 Term Scholarship in Mechanical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Castle Point, Hoboken, NJ 07030.
on Aug 25, 2017