Robert J. Sullivan's Obituary
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, Robert J. “Bob” Sullivan. Bob, age 85, died Friday morning July 1 at home following an extended illness. He was an inspiration to all of us, meeting his daily challenges with courage, optimism and concern for his family. His love for us was boundless. Throughout his illness Bob kept his sense of humor and charm, and never stopped yearning for a way to heal. He exemplified the saying that ‘courage isn’t having the strength to go on, it is going on when you don’t have the strength’.
He was born in 1936 in Hopkinton, MA, son of the late Daniel and Gertrude Sullivan, and was a resident of Tolland, CT for almost 55 years. He graduated from Lyndon State College in VT and obtained his Master’s degree from The University of Hartford. He spent the majority of his adult life as a teacher and an administrator in the Stafford Public School System, teaching History and English. He loved his profession and especially his students, remaining friends with many of them until the time of his death.
Bob was a proud veteran who willingly served for over 30 years in the United States Army. He was a distinguished First Sergeant during Operation Desert Storm and was honorably discharged from service in 1996, retiring as a Master Sergeant. The military was a significant part of his life, pride and accomplishments. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a member of the American Legion.
Bob loved visits with family and friends, crossword puzzles, sports, fishing and traveling out West to national parks. He had a love of food, never meeting a seafood platter or bowl of ice cream he didn’t enthusiastically enjoy. He always looked forward to weekly gatherings with friends, and was a charter member of a special group, The ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out).
Bob leaves behind his loving wife Judith of 54 years. He was blessed with two beautiful daughters, Stephanie Sullivan of Natick, MA, Christine (Frank) Barretta of Southington CT; two grandchildren, who were the lights of his life, Ryan and Alison Barretta; and many nieces and nephews. His little dog Ella also misses him dearly. Bob was predeceased by sisters Mary Kowalyshyn and Joan Sullivan.
Bob also leaves behind many good friends and fond acquaintances, too numerous to mention, though not intentionally overlooked. Our family would like to especially acknowledge John Gracey, who Bob always considered a brother. Our family is forever grateful John was a part of Bob’s life for so many years.
We wish to thank all who expressed love and concern to Bob and our family during his illness. A special, heartfelt thank you to Gina and the rest of the Visiting Nurses, as well as the Hospice team. They are all true angels.
There are no calling hours per Bob’s wishes. A private Celebration of Life will be held at the family’s convenience.
Please remember Bob with a smile and an act of kindness to others. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Citizen’s Scholarship Foundation of Stafford, Robert Sullivan Fund, P.O. Box 25, Stafford Springs, CT 06076. To leave a condolence online for the family, please visit: www.introvignefuneralhome.com
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?