Robert Douglas Mann

COLUMBIA

Robert Douglas Mann, 86, of Columbia, CT passed away on May 8, 2024. He was born in Dayville, CT, the son of the late Robert G. and Sadie B. (Douglas) Mann.

Bob attended Andover Elementary School where each of the teachers had three grades in her classroom and everyone used the outhouse. In third grade he would help the first graders with their reading lessons. He always said that his childhood with his best friend, Chuck Scoog, on Andover Lake was the best time of his life. As a young child, Bob was a survivor of the Hartford Circus Fire, saved only by his father's quick thinking. Robert was a member of the Windham High School swim team and marching band. He was a proficient trombone player taking lessons at the Hartt School of Music and was once selected for first chair, first trombone in the Hartford Symphony Orchestra. He was also a founding member of the Willimats, and they auditioned for The Ted Mack Show.

Robert loved dogs, especially his golden retriever Sox. He was very knowledgeable about civics and politics and completed 8 crossword puzzles a day. Golf was his favorite sport, and he was a longtime member of the Willimantic Country Club. Bob enjoyed maintaining his property and going to tag sales to look for useful bargains. He was a big fan of Frank Sinatra, UConn Women's basketball and the Boston Red Sox. In later years he played bridge at the Beckish Senior Center in Columbia where he made many friends. He had several careers throughout his life: cost accountant, owner of Mann's Package Store and Redemption enter, and tractor trailer driver.

Bob is survived by his wife of 55 years, Katherine (Hnat) Mann, his children Robert and Sarah, and his brothers, Douglas and Gordon and their children. He was predeceased by his brother, David Mann.

There are no calling hours. His services are private.For an online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com.

Robert Douglas Mann