In Memory of

Robert

E.

Hale

Obituary for Robert E. Hale

Robert E. “Bob” Hale, 91, of West Hartford, beloved husband of 67 years to Jean (Justice) Hale, died Thursday, May 15, 2014. Born in Philadelphia, PA, son of the late William and Grace M. (Walter) Hale, he lived in West Hartford for many years. He served in the U.S. Air Force, graduated from Temple University and had a successful career as an executive with Insurance Company of North America. Bob was a member of the First Church of Christ Congregational, West Hartford. He taught a memoir class at the University of Connecticut, and loved family vacations, camping, gardening and playing bridge. Above all, he was devoted to his family. A dedicated husband, Bob spent many years as the primary caregiver for his wife who is fighting dementia. Always a true gentleman, Bob had a genuine interest in all people whether they were family, neighbors, colleagues, or wait staff at local restaurants he frequented. Bob saw life as, in a word, “tremendous.” Besides his wife, Bob leaves his children: Robert A. Hale and his wife Claudia of Greensboro, NC; Patricia Hale of West Hartford; Bruce Hale and his wife Rita of Suffield; and Margaret “Peggy” Ralphs and her husband Brian of Simsbury. Bob also leaves nine grandchildren: Robert J. Hale and his wife Amanda of St. Charles, IL; Susan Hale of Los Angeles, CA; Charles Hale of Watertown, MA; Matthew Hale and his wife Jamie of Newington; Barbara Skolnick and her husband Josh of New Hope, PA; Richard Hale and his wife Nina of North Granby; Robert F. Hale of Suffield; and Spencer and Caleb Ralphs of Simsbury; and four great-grandchildren: Robert Alexander Hale and Cecilia Hale of St. Charles, IL; Natalie and Levi Skolnick of New Hope, PA; and a brother, Frank Hale of Farmington, MO; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Bob was predeceased by siblings William, James, John, Charles, and Lucille. The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Mary Home and Masonicare for the loving care they provided. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, 11:00 a.m. at the First Church of Christ Congregational, 12 South Main Street, West Hartford. Burial will be private. Calling hours will be Monday, 4-7 p.m. at the Sheehan-Hilborn-Breen Funeral Home, 1084 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of his loving wife to an Alzheimer’s related charity of your choice.