Obituary of Robert E. Brown

Robert "Bob" Brown passed unexpectedly on February 23, in the comfort of his home on Grove Street in Putnam. Robert was born April 24, 1944 in Willimantic, CT to the late Julia (Degnan) and Joseph N. Brown, Jr. of Storrs, CT. Robert spent his youth in Storrs before moving to Putnam, CT where he settled with his family. Predeceased by his beloved wife, Kerry D. Brown, Robert persevered only four more years without her. He is survived by his children: Rebecca (Scahill) and husband Mark, Jennifer (Strickland) and husband Ken, Sean, Christopher and wife Kerri, Elizabeth, Kevin and wife Marlene, Amy, Patrick, Emily, Sarah and SweetPEAS. His grandchildren: Ashleigh, Lauren, Brooke, Matthew (Scahill), Kiah, Nikolas, Derek (Strickland), Lyndsey, Kourtney, Jarred (Brown), Jaedon, Nolan (Brown) and Leia (Brown). His siblings: Julia, Joseph and Merritt, as well as numerous cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews. Robert graduated from Laurel Crest Academy in 1962, prior to beginning studies at the University of CT in Storrs. Robert later served in the USARMY and USARNG, and was proud of the honorable discharge he earned in 1971. His civilian career spanned more than 40 years, always in the field of automotive mechanics, management and inspection. Robert began work as a mechanic for Markland's Garage, in Storrs, became automotive manager for Montgomery Ward, and later enjoyed a lengthy career as Investigative Inspector for the State of CT Department of Motor Vehicles. In addition, he particularly enjoyed his years of service as a member of the Woodstock Fair security force. Robert will be fondly remembered as Dad, Grandpa, or Bob to those who knew and will always love him. He never met a stranger and it is that camaraderie and love of good conversation that will be missed the most. Calling hours are Wednesday, February 27th, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove Street, Putnam, CT. Friends and family may pay final respects at Smith and Walker on Thursday, February 28th, from 8:30 to 9:30 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM in St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel, 46 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06268. Burial with Military Honors to follow in Storrs Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Heart Association or to The American Lung Association to share a memory "Light a Candle" At www.smithandwalkerfh.com