Groton, CT, Connecticut
Groton - Robert F. Curley, of 1159 Poquonnock Rd., Groton died Sunday at his residence.
He was born in Bronx, N.Y. on June 29, 1927. He married Pauline Dorothy Mayers on Aug. 24, 1948. Mrs. Curley died on Sept. 19, 2009.
Prior to his marriage, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was honorably discharged at the end of World War II.
He became a fire fighter in New York City in January of 1952, and was promoted through the ranks until August of 1976, when he retired as a Deputy Fire Chief from the South Bronx, the busiest fire district in the world.
He went on to perform safety and fire services in Florida, California, West Point and at Subase New London.
He is survived by his son, Dougls Curley of Groton; his daughter, Nita Curley of Waterford; his sister, Alyce Conners of California; and his brother, James Curley of Forida.
A Memorial Service will be held 7 p.m. on Friday at the Byles-Groton Memorial Home, 310 Thames St., Groton. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Salvation Army, 5 Gov. Winthrop Blvd., New London, CT 06320 or to a fire company of your choice.
Chief, although I never had the privilege to work with you, my friends who did, had nothing but high praise and respect for you. The New York City Fire Department today, carries on the high traditions set fourth by men like you during your career. My sincere condolences to your family, and may God Bless you Chief, Rest In Peace.
Jay Walsh, LT. FDNY E-59
November 25, 2009 | Montgomery, NY
At the Pfizer Groton Laboratories, you could always count on a kind word or a joke from Bob as he greeted everyone passing his security guard station coming in from the parking garage. He put a smile on many faces. Thanks for your service and good cheer, Bob. My condolences to your family.
Pat Gaffey
November 23, 2009 | New London, CT
I knew Bob at Subase and later at TGC Foxwoods. A great guy all arround. Definately the end of an era. My prayers are with his family.
Kim Foster
November 20, 2009 | Ledyard, CT
Chief Curley - one of the all time greats. It was an honor to have come to know him and to work with him for a brief period of time at Pfizer. A gentleman in every respect that truly had great care and concern for others. The Division Chief has returned to quarters - God Bless.
Jim Shake
November 18, 2009 | Niantic, CT
Fair winds, Chief
I knew Bob for a number of years and always enjoyed his stories and his company.
John Gill, Retired Deputy Chief, PBFD
John Gill
November 17, 2009 | Lake Placid, FL
A great man has gone, Only meet him once but the stories are unbelievable but true. I'm reading a old book on his years in FDNY and it was nice to see his name pop up in one of the chapters. My condolences to your family. Rob Ladd SBFD
Rob Ladd
November 17, 2009
Fair winds and following seas my friend. You were my first career fire chief and you taught me a lot. My deepest condolences to your family. Rest easy Chief, you deserve it. C-1 52,Quarters.
Jim Cannici
November 17, 2009 | Milwaukie, OR
Bob was known to me and friends as Chief, he was an extrodinary man with a heart of gold. I will miss him dearly as he moves on to join his wife in a eternal life with god. His stories of his days in the NYFD were amazing and enjoyable to hear about. On September 11th he was at his security post in Groton at Pfizer and he felt the strong urge to be there for his former personel and give his support. God bless you Chief on your new journey.
Tom
November 17, 2009 | VT
Chief Curley, Rest in Peace.
Michael Tirone
Subase F.D. 1978-1986
Michael Tirone
November 17, 2009 | Putnam, CT
