Robert J. Hambach

Robert J. Hambach, of Melrose, entered into eternal life at the age of 85, on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, at Evergreen Health Care Center, Stafford Springs. He was the beloved husband of almost 52 years (Feb. 20) to Carlene (Ryder) Hambach, and son of the late Emil and Ida (Berberich) Hambach.

He was born on April 22, 1926, in the Melrose section of East Windsor and was a lifelong resident. He owned and operated Longview Stable in Melrose for 37 years and the former Ward-Hambach Realty. Robert was a former corrections officer with the State of Connecticut in Somers and was also a farmer and retired postmaster after 41 years of service. As a square dance caller Robert met his wife, Carlene. Among his many endeavors he enjoyed flying as a licensed pilot and spent many hours during the winters snow plowing. In his leisure time he enjoyed boating, bird watching, had a great interest in airplanes and trains, and was an avid UConn Huskies basketball fan.

Besides his beloved wife, Robert is survived by his loving daughters, Deborah Rudolf, and her husband, Mitchell, of Somers and Diane Harrison, and life partner, Michael DeGray, of Colchester; his two beloved granddaughters, Amy Rudolf of Caldwell, Idaho, and Stacy Rudolf of Gladstone, Mich.; along with three nieces and a sister-in-law. He was predeceased by a sister, Sister Mary Theresa, and a brother, Francis Hambach.

The family would like to thank the staff at Evergreen for all its love and support.

Relatives and friends may gather with his family during calling hours today, Feb. 17, 2012, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Browne Memorial Funeral Chapels, 43 Shaker Road, Enfield.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, at 10 a.m. in St. Catherine Church, 4 Windsorville Road, Broad Brook. Burial will follow in St. Catherine's Cemetery.

Memorial donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Connecticut Chapter, 2075 Silas Deane Highway, Suite 100, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.

For online condolences and directions, go to

www.brownefuneralhome.com