Robert J. Schiffmann

Schiffmann, Robert J. of Hingham, MA, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away on March 13, 2020 at the age of 92.

Bob was born in New Britain,CT and he grew up in Milton, MA. He graduated from Boston College High School and Boston College. He was immensely proud of his designation as a “Double Eagle.” Bob was also proud to be associated with the College of the Holy Cross as a father and grandfather of four alumni. He served as an officer in the U.S. Army after graduating from BC. Bob met his dear wife of 60 years, Catherine (MacLeod), and together they built a beautiful life focused on faith, family, friends and serving others.

In 1971, Bob founded his company, Mats Inc, and served as its President and CEO. The company had humble beginnings as Bob did the selling and Catherine handled the record keeping. Their teamwork, along with Bob’s business savvy and natural ability to develop lasting relationships, provided a strong foundation upon which the company’s success would be built. Today their three sons lead this family business, which is now one of the premier companies in the country in the commercial flooring industry. Bob loved coaching baseball, playing golf, spending time with his children and grandchildren, always ready to listen and provide sage advice. He was so interested in learning about others. He made others feel like they were the most important people in the world with his curious inquiries and big smile.

Bob was an active member of the Braintree Rotary Club and was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow which recognizes individuals who have given of themselves for the benefit of others.

He was active at Our Lady of the Cape Church in Brewster, MA, where he developed wonderful friendships while sharing his deep faith in God. Bob was a friend of Bill W for 49 years.

Bob made friends wherever he went:  Braintree, Brewster, New Smyrna Beach and Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, to name a few.

Beloved husband of M. Catherine (MacLeod) Schiffmann of Hingham. Loving father of John R. Schiffmann of Boston, Richard C. Schiffmann and his wife, Elaine, of Milton, Anne M. Fink and her husband, John, of Bedford, NY, and Paul C. Schiffmann and his wife, Maureen, of Hingham. Brother of Richard F. Schiffmann and his wife, Jean, of Barnstable, and the late John R. Schiffmann and his wife, Carole, of Hingham. Grandfather of Alexandra, Owen, Julia, Ella, Alec, Jack, Katie, Charlie, William, Caroline, and Andrew. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Boston College High School, 150 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125 in memory of Robert J. Schiffmann, ‘46. 

A Memorial Mass and Celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date in the summer.