Robert E. Krodel Sr.

Robert E. Krodel, Sr. Nov. 4, 1924 - Jun. 18, 2014 NORWICH - Robert E. Krodel, Sr., 89, died peacefully at his home on Wednesday. Robert was born in Taftville, CT on Nov. 4, 1924 to the late August and Emma (Bradlaw) Krodel. After completing high school at the Norwich Free Academy, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served during WWII and achieved the rank of Sergeant. During his service he also met the love of his life and future bride, Elizabeth (Johnson), who predeceased him on Dec. 15, 2013. After his Honorable Discharge, on July 31, 1945, he married his beloved and graduated with an Associate's Degree in Funeral Directing and Embalming from the New York School of Embalming and Restorative Art. Robert and Elizabeth eventually went on to own and operate the former Gager's Funeral Home in town until 1985. Robert was known to always be an impeccably dressed man about town, who loved people and conversation, carrying a perpetual smile on his face and song in his heart. He lived a very active and selfless life where family, serving the Lord and helping others brought him great joy. His enthusiasm and personality shined, especially during the 60 years of fellowship he shared singing barbershop music with Nowich's Rose City Chorus. As family was his first priority, during his wife's later years, he took on the role of caretaker, keeping her at their home and until her passing. It was a love that lasted over 68 years in this life, which gave him a family and life he was so proud. They are now together, again. His service was extensive: Member of or on many boards, including Shriners, Somerset Lodge of Masons (achieving 32nd degree), Salvation Army, YMCA, Maplewood Cemetery, Sheltering Arms, SPEBSQSA (Barbershoppers), St. Mark Church and the Duet Club, Eliza Huntington Home, American Legion, Exchange Club and Boy Scouts. Robert is survived by his three children, Margaret Halen, Karen Krodel, and Robert Krodel, Jr.; his grandchildren, Scott, Andrea, Brett, and Jay Halen; Frank and Craig Sadowski; and Marlee and Karley Krodel; and a growing amount of great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 21st, at 11:00 A.M. at the Church & Allen (Gager) Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St., Norwich, CT. with a calling hour from 10 A.M. until the time of service. Burial with Military Honors will immediately follow at Maplewood Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Memorial donations may be made to St. Mark Church, 248 Broadway, Norwich, CT or Masonicare Hospice, 339 Flanders Rd., E. Lyme, CT. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.churchandallen.com