Robert Vannelli

1949 - 2024

Robert Vannelli
It is with tremendous sadness the family of Robert Vannelli mourn his passing on April 29, 2024. Born in Springfield, MA, February 11, 1949 to Raniero and Anna May (Gravel), he moved to Somersville, CT at age 5 and enjoyed a wonderful, carefree, baby boomer childhood along the banks of the Scantic River. Graduating Somers High in 1967, he went on to college earning a BA in economics. His journey through life found him marrying Michele Dupre and starting their life together in Vermont, then NY, and finally landing in CT. Throughout all states, he was an active member of the Jaycee civic organization earning the designation of JCI Senator and also becoming a recipient of the Armbruster Award. Along life's journey, Michele and Bob raised their two great children, Martina and Nicco, both brought much joy and rewarded them with many happy and memorable moments. However, Bob's greatest joy was spending time with his family and becoming "Nonno" to his four grandkids.
As with many, Bob's career path had interesting twists and turns. He was Athletic Director at Windham College in VT and later at SUNY Corning, NY. With his special interest of soccer and also teaching wilderness skills and whitewater canoeing, he led trips in VT, ME, NH and Canada. Canoe camping was something he and the family enjoyed frequently. Bob left the field of education for sales; first in insurance and later selling financial products. This career dovetailed nicely with his economics degree.
Upon moving to Windsor, Bob volunteered many years as a coach for Windsor's soccer program and in later years, as empty-nesters, Bob and Michele switched to seasonal seashore life at their place on Cape Cod. It was there, many numerous family vacation memories were created and friends were entertained. Additionally, Bob enjoyed endless hours in his boat fishing off the tip of the Cape. Whether clamming, picking mussels, or doing beach walks with their dog, the cape was Bob's happy place.
A good neighbor, he used his chain saw to remove storm windfalls or help dig out from snowstorms. Folks up Eastview Drive may have known him by name, if not, he was referred to as "the guy with the Black Lab."
Bob leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Michele; his daughter Martina Vannelli Munoz and son-in-law Luis along with their children, Malena and Max from Winsted, his son Nicco Vannelli and daughter-in-law Liz plus their two girls, Gianna and Nina of Ellington. Siblings include Sharon Carrubba and husband Mike; and Sandy Lysick and husband Rudy; along with cousins, nieces and nephews, Bob will be missed by all.
A wake will take place at Browne Memorial Funeral Chapels, 43 Shaker Rd., Enfield, CT from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. Those wishing, may leave online condolences on their site. Per Bob's wishes, there will be no service and disbursement of his ashes will be at the convenience of his family. Favorite charities include St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the American Heart Assn.