Obituary of Robert T. Walsh

Robert T. Walsh, 62, of Waterbury and formerly Naugatuck CT passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday October 22, 2018.  Born at St. Francis Hospital, Hartford on November 28, 1955, he was the fourth of the six children of the late Thomas F. and Kathryn A. Walsh of Manchester, CT.

Robert (“Bob,” “Bobby,” “Uncle Bob,”) lived and grew up in Manchester.  He was a graduate of St. James School and Manchester High (Class of 1973). Robert later received a B.A. in Criminal Justice from The University of New Haven (1983). 

Robert was initially employed at The Hartford Juvenile Detention Center before continuing his career at Help Inc., Waterbury. Robert worked as the Roger’s House Program Director (at Help Inc.), holding various responsibilities through the years within the facility before retiring in 2012 from the position of Assistant Executive Director for Administration and Finance.

Robert is best described as a caring, outgoing, generous man with a special talent for spontaneous fun. He never said no to an adventure, whitewater rafting, softball, golfing trips, visiting baseball stadiums nationwide, limitless hours enjoying time with family and friends, especially on the Rhode Island shore which was very special to him.  A memory he continued to treasure was a fortuitous visit with George W. Bush at Cape Arundel Golf Course in Kennebunkport shortly after the President left office.  True to form for Robert, the rendezvous was arranged by someone he happened to sit next to at Fenway Park – the Golf Pro from Cape Arundel who encouraged Robert to “stop by if he was ever in the area.”

But, if you asked what was most important to Bob….his Faith, his Family, his friends, flying and football….. 

While he was passionate about flying, a passion he inherited from his Father, he was even more passionate about football…..he loved the game. He wrote about it …while in high school, he was a sports writer for the Manchester Herald. He played football at every level through college. An All State linebacker in high school and co-captain at the University of New Haven,  he was recognized years later as one of the state’s top 100 (high school) athletes by the New Haven Register. For many years, he could be found refereeing on high school gridirons throughout the state. When no longer able to be on the field, you would find him in the stands at Rentschler Field in the company of family and friends, overseeing his UCONN Huskies and occasionally catching a UNH game as well.

Robert was a member of the Waterbury Elks Lodge #265.

Besides his parents, Robert was predeceased by his wife, Kathleen, his brothers Thomas F. (Jr.) and Kevin A. Walsh. He is survived by three siblings, Mary M. Walsh (Manchester), Kathryn W. Smith (Coventry), Richard J. Walsh (Manchester), two sisters-in law,  Sally Walsh of  Barton, VT and Gail Walsh of Manchester.

“Uncle Bob” is also survived by numerous and loving nieces and nephews, and their children (thoroughly enjoying pictures and videos of our most recent additions to the family – Hailee and Ryan, lovingly and thoughtfully sent to him by their parents). Additionally, Robert is survived by an uncle, Fred Barker of Denver, CO, countless cousins, as well as a small army of devoted friends who will miss Robert more than words can say.

His family would like to express their gratitude to each of the many friends, individuals and professionals whose kindness and caring made immeasurable contributions to Robert’s comfort and wellbeing throughout his ongoing illness. You know who you are, he treasured each of you.

A man of great faith, there is no doubt that Robert is now celebrating in heaven with his family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday October 30^th at 10:00 AM at Saint James Church, 896 Main Street, Manchester.  Family and Friends may call on Monday October 29^th from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home 219 West Center Street Manchester.  Family and Friends are asked to meet at church on Tuesday. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital, the “Antlers Youth Group of Waterbury Elks #265” or the charity of your choice, with Robert’s thanks. For online condolences, please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com