Robert Reed Stalsburg Sr.

Deep River - A quiet man in life and death, Robert Reed Stalsburg Sr. of Deep River, crossed over peacefully on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2007, surrounded by his family.

Born and raised in Deep River, Bob lived and worked there all of his life with his wife of 56 years, Grace. He will be remembered forever by his children, Patricia, Carol Rudewicz and her husband, Henry, Robert and his wife, Sheri, and Kitty and her husband, Rob Hageman.

He is with his son, Harold Johannes "Buzzy", who predeceased him in 1997. He was also predeceased by his siblings, his brother, Harold Johannes II, and his sister, Betty Zanardi.

His legacy lives on through his five grandchildren, Damon Rudewicz of San Francisco, Calif., Brittany, Eric, and Kelly Stalsburg of Old Saybrook, and Kathryn Hageman of Lyme.

Born Aug. 21, 1922, the son of Harold Johannes I and Catherine (O'Bannon) Stalsburg, Bob owned and operated the family trucking company, Stalsburg Express since 1945. His son, Robert Reed Stalsburg Jr. is the current owner.

An active, involved member of his community, his life exemplified the Rotary motto of "service above self". Bob's life was spent in civil service. He proudly enlisted in the Army to serve in World War II, a member of the 3532nd Ordinance Maintenance Co., he was active in the European theater from 1943-1945. A staunch Republican, he served on the Republican Town Committee, the Board of Selectmen and as First Selectman for the town of Deep River. As a selectman, he was instrumental in many town projects including the creation and development of the Town Landing, the water treatment plant, activities with the Deep River Historical Society and senior housing. A charter member of the Westbrook Elks Lodge 1784, he served as Exalted Ruler, District Deputy, and was fundamental in raising extensive funds for the Newington Children's Hospital. A Paul Harris Fellow, his membership in the Deep River Rotary Club was an important part of his life. He was recognized by the American Legion for 60 years of continuous membership. Bob also served as the president of the Deep River Ambulance Association for many years.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2007, at the Deep River Congregational Church. A reception at the church will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc., 36 Town Woods Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371, The Westbrook Elks, Deep River Ambulance, or any of his civic interests.

Arrangements by Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, Centerbrook.