Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
Robert GRELAK Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert GRELAK
Bunny Talarski
January 4, 2022
Seeing his face brings him back to life in my memories, he was one of the best!!
Chris Rose
January 4, 2021
Bobby
Can’t believe it will be 11 years that you left us. I’m so grateful for all my memories of you. You were the best!
Bunny Talarski
January 4, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Ned Owens
March 11, 2010
Dear Glenna and Winnie,
I was very sorry to hear about the passing of your brother Bobby. I didn't know Bobby that will but had met him a few times when I was Garry's roommate at Wilbraham. The Grelak family has always held a special place in my heart and I will never forget the wonderful times at with your mother when Garry and I would travel south to Ft. Lauderdale for spring break.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
Theresa Drapeau Whiting
February 28, 2010
Dear Glenna, Winnie and Steve,
My heart is broken, once again. I am in a bit of shock and am filled with sadness and crazy happy memories. Bobby always had a place in my heart and always will. I've thought of him often. I would have loved to attend the services if I knew. Please let me know if future celebrations of his life are planned.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. You are special friends.
Michael Vuolo
February 24, 2010
Dear Glenna, Winnie and Steve:
I'm so sorry to hear that Bobby is no longer with us. He was a great boss and a friend that was always there with his smile and sense of humor. Please know that a person is not judged by how many years he has spent on earth but by the quality of time he has spent there. I wish you all peace during this difficult time.
Mike Vuolo
Kathy (Katie) Roberts
January 29, 2010
I was very sad to find out Bobby has passed. He was a great boss and friend. Working at the Hawthorne was the best time of my waitressing career. He will be missed.
Wendy Friedlander
January 20, 2010
I was very sad to hear the news and really wished that I was able to be in CT for the Memorial. I have so many wonderful memories of spending so much of my life with all of you. Bobby was amazing and always makes me smile when I think of him. Please know that my heart and prayers is with you all. With heart felt Love - Wendy Curtiss/Karzian
Christine Aitken
January 19, 2010
My deepest condolences to the Grelak family.
I have many memories of Bobby as I have known him my whole life. He was my Godfather but i grew up referring to him as "Uncle Bobby". He was a very close friend of the family as him and my Dad have know each other for years and have worked together at the Hawthorne Inn forever.
Bobby was always there for all the important events in my life and i will never forget that.
Whenever me and my husband Bill would go to dinner there for an anniversary, birthday, or any other special occasion and Bobby was there, he would always make a point to come over to our table and chat. He always had a smile on his face and a story to make you laugh.
He will truly be missed.
Melissa Fazzio
January 17, 2010
Glenna, Winnie and Steve,
I am very sorry to hear about Bobby's passing. He was such a wonderful person with an amazing sense of humor----I have so many great memories of Bobby while I worked at the Hawthorne. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
"Those we love must someday pass beyond our present sight... Must leave us and the world we know without their radiant light. But we know that like a candle their lovely light will surely shine to brighten up another place more perfect... more divine. And in the realm of Heaven where they shine so warm and bright, our loved ones live forevermore in God’s eternal light."
Love,
Melissa
Greg Hodgson
January 16, 2010
My heartfelt condolences to the entire Grelak family on the passing of Bobby. It's still very hard to believe.
I have very fond memories of the many dinners and special events I attended at the Hawthorne throughout the years, dating back to my early childhood in the 1960s. Bobby was my boss when I went to work at the restaurant when I was a teenager in the 1970s. He was a great guy to work for and a very fair man who seemed to always have a good word to say.
My wife, Dayle, and I met at the restaurant while we were employed there over 30 years ago. Whenever we had the opportunity to have our wedding anniversary dinner at the Hawthorne, while visiting family in CT, we did so. Bobby was usually there and always took the time to sit and chat with us. As has been noted in several of the posts, he certainly had the knack for making you feel special. Of course, no dinner would be complete unless he took me around the place to show-off the changes that were made over the years - especially the kitchen! He was proud of that restaurant.
Again, I am very sorry for your loss. The world has lost one of the truly "good guys".
Lori and Norm Tacey
January 13, 2010
To Bobby's Family: As I stood in the back of the packed church this morning, I realized how Bobby has touched so many people's lives. Not just a few, but hundreds.I was so fortunate to have known such a wonderful person and I will always remember his unconditional friendship. May all of you find peace and comfort in the difficult days ahead. And remember that every time you think of him, he is with you at that moment.
Michael & Tracey Stone
January 13, 2010
Glenna, Winnie and Steve,
I just heard about Bobby. I am so sorry. He was a great guy. While words seem so inadequate at a time like this - never-the-less my heart and sympathy goes out to you all for your loss and the loss of such a good guy.
Sharon Marinelli
January 13, 2010
George and I were so sorry to hear of the passing of Bobby. We have many wonderful memories of Bobby, he was a great guy!!!!
Sharon and George Marinelli
JoAnn Galvin
January 12, 2010
Dear Glenna, Winnie and Steve,
I am so sorry. Bobby was such a special person and a kind, thoughtful friend to so many. I've never known anyone quite like him.
We will all miss him - but will hold him dear in our hearts.
Love,
JoAnn
Wm. [Bill] Humphrey
January 12, 2010
Dear Glenna, Winnie, Steve, Nicole & Michele,
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
My friendship with Bobby began in 1956 at St.Paul's School in my home town of Kensington CT.
We were young and had our entire life before us. We enjoyed many great times together and always had a good laugh. Over the years as I managed Hotels coast to coast, we keep in touch.
Whenever I came back home to visit with Friends and Family I would call Bobby and we would find the time to 'Catch-up'.
Memories of The Hawthorne and Bobby's great sense of 'Hospitality' will forever be cherished.
He was my Friend.
Wm.[Bill] Humphrey
Bobby Del Monaco
January 12, 2010
Glenna, Winnie & Steve, Nicole and Michelle, My prayers to you all, and to Bobby, as he was a great Man, always with a smile to warm your heart. I always remember the times Bobby & I hung out eating breakfast at the Hawthorne Inn reading the newspaper. He will be missed, but remember he is only a prayer away! Love, Bobby Del Monaco
January 12, 2010
Dear Winnie, Steve, Glenna, Nicole and Michelle,
We are so very sorry for your loss. We know you are a close loving family and hope that your love for each other can help you through this terrible time.
Sincerely with Love, Cindy and Evart and Justin Michalski
Bridget Beauchaine
January 12, 2010
Thinking of you during this most difficult time. Whenever I saw Bobby he always had a broad smile and a friendly word. May the many fond memories you have keep him alive in your hearts. Fondly, Bridget A. Beauchaine (Jacqueline Cswerko's sister)
January 12, 2010
Glenna, Winnie, Steve, Nicole and Michelle my deepest and most heartfelt condolences for your loss. I was shocked when I heard the news. I always enjoyed my time as an employee of the Hawthorne Inn, and it being a family run business is what made it so special. I have many fond memories of those years. Best wishes to you all in these tough times. ...Alicia Lewandowski (Middletown, CT)
Alan Tannenbaum
January 12, 2010
Dear Winnie, Steve & Glenna,
I was shocked to learn of the passing of Bobby so suddenly. Although we had not seen each other recently, I have so many fond memories of our times together.. especially when I lived at the Hawthorne Inn between marriages. Bobby and I go back to when our fathers were both on the board of the Connecticut Hotel Association. We will especially miss running into him at the Ft. Lauderdale airport.
Our deepest symathies to you and your familes... Bobby will be missed.
Alan & Diane Tannenbaum
Nick Stargu
January 12, 2010
Winnie, Glenna and Steve, we were shocked to find out of Bobby's passing!
We want to send our deepest sympathy's to you and your entire family. Bobby always treated us with respect and was always sincere with his wonderful smile and thoughtful comments. The world has lost a wonderful man!
Love, Nick Stargu and Nancy Trecina-(After All duo)
Meril and Mike Robinson
January 11, 2010
Our deepest condolences to the family.
We will never forget Bobby and that wide, beautiful smile! He was famous for his wonderful sense of humor, I will remember him forever with that smile. We loved him too. God Bless him and his loved ones
January 11, 2010
Glenna and Winnie, Our deepest sympathy on the passing of your brother Bobby, I knew Bobby a long time he was a GREAT guy...
Jay and Linda Polke
Denise Fletcher
January 11, 2010
Glenna, Winnie, Steve, Nicole & Michele, There is not enough space to mention all the wonderful things your brother and uncle should be remembered for. I know I met Bobby while Glenna and I were in college and he sure did a nice job sending us all the wine he didn't want! There are some stories there! I also remember many funny trips with Bobby and his crazy friends on the boat when we were young and carefree. One thing I have to say is Bobby loved life whether at work or play and he loved each of you immensely. Glenna every day you walk in your door Mr. Buddha will be a reminder of Bobby’s sense of humor. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Denise & David Fletcher
Ray and DeeDee Wiezalis
January 11, 2010
DeeDee and I were absolutely shocked when we received the news of Bobby's death. Bob and I both escorted Dee to the Bal Menuet in 1971 and, with Bob as best-man, we got engaged @ the Hawthorne and married in 1972.
Since 1965 at 'Nova he was my dear friend, roommate, best-man and trusting confidant. We were there for each other when we each lost our own brothers, Gary and John. I can honestly say I loved that guy. I was so lucky to have spent 4 hours with him for his recent December Birthday. At our age we still remembered a hundred stories! He was happy, contented, and at peace with himself and the world; in other words "he was Bobby". This world of his family and friends is diminished by his absence.
Bill & Nancy Buonauito
January 11, 2010
Winnie & Steve:
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ray and DeeDee Wiezalis
January 11, 2010
Dear Glenna, Winnie, Steve, Nicole & Michele,
DeeDee and I have been speechless since last Friday. We still cannot believe this has happened. All of our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Since 1965 he has been my Brother,my roommate at "Nova", my friend, my best-man, etc.,etc. I truly loved this guy! We were there for each other when we lost both Gary and John.
Just before his last Birthday we got together, just the 2 of us at Pazzo's, and reminisced and laughed for hours. He was happy, contented and at peace with himself and the world;
in other words just our normal "Bobby". Our world is not the same without his presence.
Carole and Tom Quamma
January 11, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Grelak family. We are so sorry to hear this unexpected news.
January 11, 2010
My sincere sympathy to the Grelak family for your loss. I got to know Bobby & Steve when I would go to listen Bruno play piano and see Bea & Mary to have a few laughs at the Hawthorne lounge. Bobby & Steve were great greeter and always acknowledge my presence. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
God Bless, Jocelyne LeFrancois
Robert Kelly
January 11, 2010
Julie and I were deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Bobby. Bobby and I shared many common bonds including being members in the Connecticut Army National Guard, the love of both boating and golf, and the fact that our parents were life long friends. Our deepest sympaties to Winnie, Steve, and Glenna and the entire Grelack family.
Bob and Julia Kelly.
Pat and Rose Dennehy
January 11, 2010
Our thoughts and sympathy go out to the family of our old friend Bob. Everyone who knew him considered him a great friend at Villanova. We always looked forward to spending time with him on visits home.
Looked at some videos of our football team at Villanova and there was Bob playing center knocking people around. We'll miss your smiling face...
January 11, 2010
Glenna and Steve,
I was so sorry to hear about Bobby, it's very hard to believe. He was a great guy and and an even greater friend. My deepest sympathies to you and your families. God will take good care of him.
Jimmy Economou
Carri Hicks
January 11, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the Grelak family. I have been blessed to have known Bobby.
Laura Petrossi
January 10, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the Grelak family. Bobby was the kind of person who took the time to acknowledge a person’s presence and make a person feel appreciated. He offered encouragement and kindness throughout my time knowing him. Winnie, Steve, Glenna , Nicole and Michelle, I am so sorry for your loss.
Shannon Ritone
January 10, 2010
Glenna,Winnie,Steve,Nicole,and Michelle
I can't believe this happened. I was so excited to see Bobby this week. You are all like my second family, since I grew up working at the Hawthorne. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Reggie Davenport
January 10, 2010
We only knew Bob for a short time but it feels like a life time. He will be missed at DHC condo. Reggie and Stevie Davenport Delray Beach . FL
January 10, 2010
"Bobby G" was our friend and neighbor. His smile was infectious. His humor was contagious. His love for life knew no bounds. Our prayers go out to his family and friends. We will all miss him.
With sympathy, Carolyn Fazio
Dj Asselin
January 10, 2010
This is a total shock! I was accepted to work at the Hawthorne Inn back in Feb. 99. Bobby was a very compassionate person and taught me the business of restaurant from early morning till midnight closing. Steve and Bobby taught me a few things about golf and I am for the better now for knowing them. There is a special place in heaven for this man rest in peace Robert..
January 10, 2010
We are very sad to hear of Bobby's passing.The Downes and the Greylak families go back many years. It is hard to believe that Bobby is not with us anymore.Our condolences to the family......John and Mary Ann Downes....The Downes Family....
Paul Fogelman
January 10, 2010
I recently met Bobby through my girlfriend Susan and her sister Barbara Johansen. We had dinner Christmas day with him at Barbara's place in Boynton Beach and he kept us laughing all night! What a great person and truly a shock to see him go so soon.
Rest in peace Bob.
Paul and Susan
Jozie and Bob Lamb
January 10, 2010
We will miss him so much! Great golfer and great friend to all....He was always a part of the laughter and fun. Our deepest sympathy to the Grelak family.
Barbara Roy
January 10, 2010
Dear Glenna, Winnie & Steve,
I was so stunned to hear of Bobby’s sudden passing. My memories (of approximately thirty years ago) are of a spry, energetic, and impish mischief-maker who I called Boss. He was always “stirring the pot” at the Hawthorne and then ducking out the back door leaving Glenna, then Steve, to clean up after. I could not help but smile when I saw the picture in the paper, he definitely still had that impish look, you never really knew what he was up too.
Your loss is great, he was too young to leave, and I am truly sorry for your loss. Sweet memories will bring a smile to your face in the future; but for now, take comfort in knowing you are all in our thoughts and prayers of many people.
Love, Bobbie Roy
January 10, 2010
January 10, 2010
Winnie and Glenna,
So sorry to hear of Bobby's passing, our prayers are with you. Bob was a good person and a real good friend. He will certainly be missed by many.
With Sympathy,
Rita and Joe Scheyd
Renna chalmers
January 10, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. He is how with our loving God.May he rest in his Holy hands.
The Chalmers
Sara Camerons daughter and family
Sheldon (Grier) Keeny
January 10, 2010
Glenna and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
Jeff and Susan Shoham
January 10, 2010
We were blessed to have met Bobby on our cold boat trip just this past week.
When we had dinner he spoke of his love for his family and his nieces. My wife and I kept saying we could not believe what a nice,smart,caring person we had just met.
Our thoughts and prayers reach out to all his family and many friends at
this time of sorrow.
With deepest sympathy,
Jeff and Susan Shoham
January 10, 2010
I was in the New Britain National Guards 169th Infantry with Bob... Bob was the BEST Mess Sgt we ever had and a Real Good Guy...Every time I was in the Hawthorne Inn Bob would make it a point to say hello... Rest in Peace Bob... Tommy Alderuccio, Kensington, Ct
Bunny Talarski
January 10, 2010
Winnie and Steve-Only seems like yesterday we were climbing the mtns in the back of the Inn, baked potatoes on the coals, must of had something else but thats what I remember. You guys are in my thoughts and paryers.
Bunny Talarski
stanley kavarsky
January 10, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jim & Connie Hannon
January 10, 2010
Winnie & Glenna,
We were shocked to hear of Bob's passing. We can't believe this!! Our love & prayers go out to both of you & your families. We always had good times at the Hawthorne Inn & we miss it. The last time we were there was for my Dad, Sam Perruccio's reception after his passing. We relocated to NV & will always remember how gracious you were.
Love & Sympathy,
Jim & Connie Hannon (formerly of CT)
451 Opal Dr
Henderson, NV 89015
Jack Carew
January 10, 2010
Our condolences go out to the Grelak family. I have some good memories of fun times playing golf with Bobby and the boys and at the Hawthorne. We will miss him.
Jack Carew and Sue - Englewood Fl
Chris Benson Rose
January 10, 2010
Dear Glenna, Winnie, Steve, Nicole and Michelle,
I would have never thought I'd be writing in Bobby's obituary guest book. How quickly life changes with one phone call.
The hole in my heart that I shall bear with Bobby being gone will be overflowing with all the great times I shared with him, along with my family. I will miss his "Hello Christine" whenever I saw him and his beautiful smile with those amazing white teeth! I'm at peace knowing he died exactly the way he would have scripted his death - peacefully. He has already visited me twice and for that, I'm grateful. Yesterday I was sitting in the car waiting for Doug to come out of an appointment. I decided to turn on the car stereo and what song comes on but "In The Garden" sung by Alan Jackson. In the Garden was my mom's favorite song but what blew me away was the sound of birds singing outside. In 20 degree weather you don't expect to hear birds singing. I looked out to find 3 birds sitting next to my car on the snow covered lawn singing away. Just like a beautiful choir they were sent to let me know that Bobby arrived in Heaven and all was well. He came again to me when I was on my way to see Winnie & Steve. I got in the car with tears still streaming down my face and turned on the car stereo - what song comes up but one by Diana Krall - I couldn't believe it! Bobby loved her and it took me back to the night we all went out to dinner and to see Diana perform at The Oakdale. You know me, I'm all about signs! Again, I was reassured that Bobby was letting me know, not to worry - he was really OK.
Without a doubt, he's teeing up and enjoying cocktails with Mom, Dad and Gary - together again.
Dad sends his sympathy to you along with Doug, Douglas and Kylee.
My heart will be holding yours.
I love you,
Chris
Laura and Billy Yandow
January 10, 2010
Winnie and Steve- you are in our thoughts and prayers. We hope your many memories of Bobby will help you during this very difficult time. All our love, Laura and Billy
Chris Benson Rose
January 10, 2010
Dear Glenna, Winnie, Steve, Nicole & Michele,
Never did I think I would be signing the guest book for Bobby's obituary. How quickly life changes with one devastating phone call to hear that your dear friend has passed.
I am blessed with so many happy times with Bobby and I will cherish every one. You are such a loving and devoted family and I know how grateful he was to each of you. He adored the girls and was so proud of their accomplishments and character.
Yesterday when I had turned on my car stereo to listen to some CD's while Doug was at an appointment, Alan Jackson's Gospel CD was playing the song "In The Garden" - one of my favorites. In 20 degree weather I began to hear birds singing - I looked out my car window to find 3 birds sitting next to my car on the snow chirping. I knew Bobby had arrived safe and sound and all is well. On my way to see Winnie & Steve last night, I again get in my car and turn on the radio - what song comes on but one by Diana Krall - it brought me back to the night we all went to the Oakdale to hear her perform. Again, another sign from Bobby that he's OK.
I will draw on the signs from him and my faith to give me strength to accept his untimely death. God was merciful in taking him so peacefully - no suffering, no pain, no horrible auto accident - just falling asleep. Exactly the way Bobby would have wanted. No longer alone, he's teeing up on the eternal golf course,having cocktails with family and smiling that beautiful smile.
Doug and I, along with Douglas, Kylee and Neil want you to know that we're here for you always. God be with you.
Love,
Chris
Showing 1 - 55 of 55 results
Make a Donation
in Robert GRELAK's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Robert GRELAK
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Robert GRELAK's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
