Robert "Bob" Despres

Robert "Bob" Despres, 83, of Vernon, beloved husband of Marie (Torzsa) Despres, passed away Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.

Bob was born in Meriden to the late Albert and Rezina (Marcoux) Despres, and was predeceased by his brother, Donald. After devoting his time to military service, Bob eagerly pursued his entrepreneurial dream of owning and operating his own business, Bob's Barber Shop, for over 60 years. A devoted family man, Bob cherished spending quality time with his loved ones in Rhode Island, boating and enjoying the scenery. In addition to his nautical interests, Bob had the gift of a curator's eye, an astute finder of antiques and oddities. He proudly displayed such rare finds in his shop, which became a physical extension of his personality, as well as a cornerstone to the Vernon community.

A man loved by many, he leaves behind those whom he was most devoted to: his wife of 58 years, Marie; his two daughters, Linda Driscoll and her husband, Kevin, of South Windsor, Sandy Tronsky and her husband, Robert, of Stafford Springs; his sister, Jeanne Schmidt of Middlefield; and his beloved grandchildren, Jake, Lauren, Paige, Catheryne; and several nieces and nephews. Although he held his entire family closely, Bob had a special place in his heart for his son-in-law, Kevin, whom he looked upon as the son he never had. Kevin and Bob's friendship was truly one-of-a-kind, a bond fostered by mutual respect and admiration.

Bob's family will receive friends Wednesday, Dec. 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Ladd-Turkington & Carmon Funeral Home, 551 Talcottville Road, Vernon.

A memorial Mass will be held at St. Joseph Church, 33 West St., Vernon, Thursday, Dec. 28, at 10 a.m.

Please visit us online at

www.carmonfuneralhome.com

for online guestbook and condolences.