Robert L. Meade, 93 of West Hartford passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 8, 2021.
Born and raised in Hartford, CT, Robert spoke little of his early years but did like to say that he came into the world with the Depression, won a most beautiful baby contest, thanks to his red and curly hair, saw the Hindenburg as it flew by Hartford in 1937 before its fatal end and spent enjoyable time working on a farm as a teenager, where he found simple pleasures such as good food.
Son of William and Florence (Larkin) Meade, he is predeceased by his three siblings, William Meade, Jr., Marilyn Daley and Donald Meade. Robert answered to Bob, Uncle Bob, an occasional Bobby, Grandpa, and in many situations, just Mr. Meade. He was particularly proud to use Larkin as his middle name, in honor of his mother.
Married in 1956 to Mary Rusek Meade, together they purchased a then brand new home in the Elmwood section of West Hartford in 1957, where they lived together for the next 60 years until Mary’s passing in 2017. A special credit is given to the wonderful care of Elizabeth with Right-at-Home Agency, which allowed Robert to live comfortably in his own home until being called by God.
Robert is survived by his two beloved children, Michael Meade (Wethersfield, CT) and Ruth Meade-Roux (France) and their respective spouses, Jamie Stross-Meade and Philippe Roux; as well as six grandchildren, Christopher Meade and his spouse Elizabeth, Stephen Meade, Andrew Meade, Samantha Hayes and her spouse Trevor, Meredith Roux, Jeanne Roux and two lively and joyful great-grandchildren, Piper and Ethan Meade; as well as his nieces and nephews.
Robert served his country during WWII with his brother Bill, who was truly his best friend through “thick and thin” from childhood to adulthood. Armistice was signed sometime during the cross Atlantic voyage, but immediate post-war duties were required in Germany, France and Italy thus a full four-year service. Many years later, when his daughter Ruth married and moved to France, there was hesitation about returning to Europe, but a first trip in 1985 preceded several other lovely and enriching trips he made with his wife Mary, especially enjoying the Christmas holidays spent with his grand-daughters Meredith and Jeanne.
Professionally, Robert worked in insurance after the war in Chicago, in New York City and mostly as an independent agent for many years in Hartford and West Hartford. He was active in the West Hartford Democratic town committee as well. Active parishioner of St Brigid Church, Robert was an honorary life member of the Knights of Columbus, St Brigid Council #14216 and member of VFW post 254.
Extremely witty and out-going in company, Robert was nonetheless quite satisfied with a quiet family life, always present for his children at ball games and school activities. He was very active at home, extremely supportive of Mary’s career and encouraged his children in their endeavors. Reading, taking daily walks in Elmwood, finding “treasures” along the way and enjoying a Yankee game from the comfort of his armchair were his simple pleasures.
He was proud of his children and grandchildren and his family will warmly remember his smile and razor-sharp humor and are blessed to have had him in their lives.
Family and Friends may call on Thursday (December 16) from 9:00-10:30 am. at Sheehan-Hilborn-Breen Funeral Home, 1084 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday (December 16) 11:00 am at St. Brigid Church, 1088 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Mt St. Benedict Cemetery, 1 Cottage Grove Road, Bloomfield.
In lieu of flowers in Robert’s memory, please donate to a Veteran’s cause. Online condolences may be made at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com