New London - Robert Edward "Dutch" Nauta, 91, passed away Sept. 8, 2018, after a brief illness at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital. He was the beloved father of Robert P. Nauta and Patricia M. Hesney, both of Waterford.

He was born in New London on Oct. 29, 1926, to Maurits M. Nauta and Julia Kelly Nauta. He was the youngest of seven siblings, all of whom served honorably for their country in WWII. Dutch served as a military policeman in the Marine Corps.

He was the widower of Barbara H. King of New London. Besides his children, he is survived by a son-in-law Timothy J. Hesney, granddaughter Maureen K. Hesney, grandson Ryan M. Hesney, and great-granddaughter Kaylin O. Johnson.

Dutch was a Bulkeley High graduate, and a member of the "Fimos", where he made many lifelong friends. Upon discharge from the Marines, he was employed at the New London Day paper as a sports writer and eventually sports editor. He retired from The Day after 44 years. During his career he interviewed many professional athletes, but his passion was covering local athletes. During his retirement Dutch was an integral part of the family business, The Sundowner Restaurant and Lounge, where he made many more lifelong friends.

Dutch loved to watch his grandchildren participate in local sports. He was a familiar figure at Waterford Football and Lacrosse games and swimming meets.

Throughout his life he traveled extensively. His favorite adventures were the family trips to Ireland, where he became an unofficial taste tester for Jameson Irish Whiskey. Slainte, Dutch!

Our family would like to thank the many caregivers who assisted Dutch over the years. Special thanks to Dr. Gary Bertman, Karen and Noreen, Dr. Jack Johnson, DDS and staff, Dr. Valerie Popkin and staff, Dr. B.J. Ferguson, John Woznicki and Heidi Richards. Their care enabled Dutch to live at home and enjoy life until the end.

A graveside service will be conducted in St. Mary Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 28.

Please omit flowers. Donations in Dutch's name may be made to the local sports program of your preference.

Condolences may be shared on Dutch's memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Day on Nov. 25, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Nauta

Sponsored by Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home - New London.

9 Entries

dennis j riley

November 29, 2018

I extend condolences to Dutch's family...I met him in the mid-1960s when I did some art-time reporting out of Norwich for The Day and it included covering high school sports...Dutch was a journalist in the fullest measure of that word--and a great guy, too...I will add him to my prayer list...

He lite up the room and made the world brighter, he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Laurie Bulkley

November 29, 2018

November 28, 2018

I would just like to say that Dutch was an important part of my life. He taught me the values of life as well respect for others. In my over 20 years of employment at Sundowner. I was allowed to show my talents in the culinary field. Dutch believed in my mission and let me shine in my talents. He will be missed and there are not many left realizing the talents of people right down the road. RIP Dutch. I'm sure you're enjoying a round in heaven. Your friend, Jeff Riotte

Mark Silvia

November 28, 2018

I met Dutchy 20 years ago. Over the years I enjoyed his stories and, hearing the history of his father starting the Dutch Tavern and raising a family on nickel beers. Over the years, there was always a constant in his life, and that was the love for his children and grandchildren. Always funny, always respectful. A great friend and an honor to have known him. Rest in Peace Dutchy.

Linda Price

November 27, 2018

Bobby and Patty ,
Your dad was a great man and friend I am so grateful that I had the chance to know him. God has a special Angel watching over you all. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers ❤

Rich Mallove

November 26, 2018

Patty And Bob, Sorry for your loss!

November 26, 2018

Patty and Bobby, Your Dad was one of my biggest cheerleaders!! He was a wonderful man. Please accept my sincere condolences. Peace and Blessings. Mo

Maude Paskewich

November 25, 2018

Sincere condolences from Maude Paskewich and family.

Don Cawley

November 25, 2018

"Dutchy" was my friend and mentor for many years at the New London Day. He was a crusty ol' vet when I started there over 40 years ago. As was the case with many of his generation, Dutchy didn't mince words or pull punches. You knew right away where you stood with him. You also knew right away that if you had him for a friend, you had a true friend for life. His knowledge of sports and devotion to young people in the region helped shape a wholesome athletic culture for the youth of southeastern Connecticut. Dutchy had little time for nonsense and less time for flowery praise. So, my friend, I will simply say: thanks.

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