Robert Omer "Rob" Robillard

Robert Omer "Rob" Robillard, 69, passed away on August 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born September 11, 1955, in Bristol, Connecticut, Rob's life was defined by devotion to family, hard work, a good joke, and a generous spirit that touched everyone who knew him. Rob was a devoted husband and true teammate to his wife, Lenore, and the proudest father of four daughters: Lauren Robillard, Nicole Robillard, Alicia (& Ralph) Ojeda, and Amanda (& Tanner) Go; as well as the beloved "Popty" to four grandchildren. Born to Antoinette and Omer "Red" Robillard, Rob, the youngest of four, was affectionately known as the "golden boy." With bright red hair, he was often found playing ball or getting into mischief. Rob was predeceased by his sister, Linda Beyus, in January 2025, and is survived by his sisters, Jan Sleight and Edie McKenna. A skilled welder by trade, Rob's ability to problem-solve and his passion for being hands-on set him up for success throughout his career. He retired as the maintenance supervisor at Yarde Metals in Southington, CT, where his strong work ethic and humble leadership earned him the respect and friendship of his colleagues. Rob possessed a rare gift for simplifying life, dedicating his efforts to the family that he adored. In all that he did and in everything he worked for, Rob considered his family his life's greatest work. He was the kind of father and grandpa that storybooks are written about, one who sacrificed any and everything for his kids, simultaneously spoiling them with love and support while teaching them the importance of hard work and an appreciation of everything life brings. Summers were filled with epic camping trips, crisscrossing the country to explore 38 states and countless national parks. As a father, he was ever-present, helping and supporting his daughters through school, sports, and life; traveling to all parts of the country and world to visit them. As a grandfather, Popty, lit up in a way that was unmistakable. He poured his heart into every moment with his grandkids, playing, crafting, reading, and making them laugh always. His joy in being a grandfather was undeniable, felt in the everyday moments they shared. Retirement brought Rob to The Villages, Florida, where he happily left behind his snowblower and embraced a new chapter of life with new friends and hobbies. His days were filled with golfing, sightseeing on his Air Force-themed golf cart, trips to Disney with the grandkids, and sipping on his favorite hazy IPA. Even in retirement, Rob's affable personality continued to touch others. The void left by Rob's passing is profound. He was a humble and selfless human being who brought laughter, generosity, and steadfast support to everyone in his life. Rob's understated strength and ceaseless loyalty made him the kind of person people counted on, looked up to, and felt lucky to have in their corner. He lived in a way that inspired others to live well, and his presence truly made everything better. It's difficult to find the perfect words to describe such a remarkable man…simply put, the world is a better place because of him. We thank God for giving him to us for nearly 70 beautiful years; his sharp wit, endless "dad jokes," and steady presence will be forever missed. A funeral Mass and celebration of Rob's life will be held at 10 am on October 4, 2025, at St. Gregory the Great Church in Bristol, CT, with a gathering to follow at Kinsmen Brewery. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor Rob by donating to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or simply by sharing an act of kindness with a stranger and finding humor in the unexpected, just as he so often did. Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.