Robert Anthony Plikaitis

Robert Anthony Plikaitis, 73
My heart is heavy as I share the loss of our cherished brother, Robert, whose kindness and spirit touched everyone he met. Born and raised in Hartford, Connecticut, he excelled in his schoolwork as well as an athlete. As a graduate of Bulkeley High School Class of 1970, he was in the top ranks of his class and an All-State Championship swimmer. He lent his particular style to swimming the butterfly with his long hair; apparently Coach Brophy did not appreciate that style, though. Robert cherished his time spent in Camp Asto Wamah at Columbia Lake in Connecticut; so much so that he returned as an adult to serve as camp counselor (Cabins 8, 9 and Hungerford House) for several years.
Bob went on to the University of Miami (BBA Class of 1974) where brother George joined him to finish his engineering degree. The two enjoyed the local life, color and carried on with intra-mural sports during their undergraduate days. Post graduation he returned to Connecticut and continued participating in community softball leagues. He and George were particularly formidable in their bowling league.
Robert loved his four nieces, two of which lived in Connecticut and two lived in Illinois with Paul, our oldest brother. The girls loved him back and they all felt blessed when Robert was living with each of the families for short periods. They enjoyed many adventures in nature, history and even archaeology. Bushnell Park in Hartford was a special adventure when catching tiny crawfish enticed with hot dogs was the sport of the day.
My brother found his niche during a lengthy career in the armored car business when he worked for Purolator Armored, Loomis, and Wells Fargo. He started as a driver and guard in Connecticut, became vault manager and route supervisor in New Jersey/New York, and then branch manager in Florida. It is here where he assigned himself to guard the terminal during the Cat 5 Hurricane Andrew in August 1992. All other personnel were sent to be with their families. The terminal, vault and my brother all survived the ordeal, no worse for the wear.
Robert was recruited to go to Texas to become Vice President of Operations for Star Armored where he stood-up no less than four brand new terminals to serve the state. Building construction, equipping, staffing, and route management all landed on his plate. He was the Glock certified firearms instructor and AAA certified driving instructor for this and other companies. Ultimately, the company was successful and was bought out by a larger concern, requiring a change of career for Bob.
Kelly Associates in West Hartford, Connecticut hired him and he became a Producer for underwriting liability for cash in transit. He worked closely with Lloyds of London and other carriers to provide this coverage after becoming a licensed broker in various states. He advised his clients on best practices and had the demonstrated knowledge for this because of his previous experience in the industry. He traveled extensively for the company to meet with each of his clients, enjoying every trip and interaction.
When he retired, Robert briefly worked at Sandy Neck Beach Park in West Barnstable, Massachusetts not only at the gatehouse, but also found it rewarding when patrolling the beachfront for cold stunned Kemp's Ridleys turtles. He spent a lot of time working estate sales for local companies and never failed to find value in the many items he collected. He spent a lot of time working around the yard of his home and always made his first of many brush burns on the first day of the season.
As the youngest of four brothers, I already miss his guidance, company and zest for living. He was taken from us after a fifteen-year battle with various cancers; William and hospice were at his bedside. He appreciated the treatment and support from his physicians and all the dedicated medical professionals who made that journey with him. He appreciated and loved his close friends who supported him without hesitation, even though he didn't want to share too much of his personal struggle with anyone.
Robert is survived by two brothers, Paul of Illinois and William of West Barnstable and two sisters-in-law Patricia of Illinois and Pegeen of Connecticut, as well as four nieces Christina Plikaitis of Missouri, Allison Cancio of Illinois, Elizabeth Plikaitis of Connecticut and Mary Margret Silverman of Maryland, as well as grandnieces and grandnephews and so many dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents Stanley and Hazel and brother George.
Burial was private at Crocker Park in West Barnstable at his request. The family suggests that any memorial donations be made to your favorite cancer charity or the West Barnstable Firefighters Relief Association in his name.