Robert D. Willette

Robert Dennis Willette, age 97, of Manchester, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on June 25th. Born on August 2, 1927, in Carron, Maine, he was the cherished son of Rose Fournier and Dennis Willette and the youngest of six children. Affectionately known as Dad, Bob, Papa, and Pops, Robert lived a life centered around family, laughter, and simple joys-none greater than time spent with the people he loved and a fishing pole in hand. As a young man, Robert worked alongside his mother in her restaurant in Presque Isle, Maine, and labored in local potato fields and factories. In 1945, he joined the U.S. Navy as a Seaman Second Class, proudly serving aboard the USS Briareus during World War II. For his service, he was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and the American Campaign Medal. After the war, Robert met and married the love of his life, Charlene M. Willette, in 1947. Their marriage, filled with unwavering devotion and companionship, lasted 76 years until Charlene's passing. Together, they made their home in Manchester, Connecticut, where Robert worked for over four decades as a mechanic at Moriarty Brothers. He loved being close enough to run home for lunch with Charlene every day-a reflection of the deep bond they shared. Robert was a devoted father to Sharon Willette Scorso and her husband Clifford Scorso, and to his late son Michael D. Willette, whose wife Nilsa Perez Willette remained close to Robert's heart. He took great pride in his grandchildren: Clifford A. Scorso III, Scott M. Scorso (Rebecca), Jessica A. Scorso (Michael Farina), Ashley Willette, Shelby Willette (Ron Brunell), and Justin Willette (April Salvatore). His eyes lit up when speaking of his great-grandchildren: Odile, Lily, Vaughan, Giovanni, Giulia, Savannah, Brooks, and Vincent, and his great-great-granddaughter Hazel. He was also lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Family was the foundation of Robert's life. Whether gathering for holidays, sharing meals, or enjoying backyard laughter, he found his greatest happiness in simply being surrounded by those he loved. He had a special talent for making everyone feel welcome, and his booming laugh-often in response to his own jokes-was unforgettable. After retiring, Robert and Charlene spent over 20 years wintering in Eustis, Florida, where they embraced the good life, shuffleboard tournaments, travel adventures, and lasting friendships. When the time came, they returned to Manchester to be closer to family, where Robert continued to be a steady, loving presence in their lives. Robert Willette was a man of great heart, deep loyalty, and enduring love. His legacy lives on in the family he treasured and the lives he touched. He will be tremendously missed, but his memory will forever bring smiles, laughter, and warmth to all who knew him. The family would like to personally thank caretakers Ela Supronowicz and Prosper Nketsiah for their extraordinary and loving care over the last four years. Relatives and friends are invited to the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 West Center St. on Thursday, July 3, 2025, for calling hours from 3pm to 5pm, followed by a funeral home service at 5pm. The burial will take place privately and at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations should be made to Hospice and Visiting Nurse and Health Services of Vernon, Connecticut, 8 Keynote Drive, Vernon, CT. 06066 To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert, please visit our floral store.