Robert Thomas McKone, 94, of Simsbury (formerly of Farmington, West Hartford and Hartford) passed away peacefully of natural causes on November 26, 2022, at his residence. Bob was the loving husband of Alice (O’Malley) McKone, his wife of 73 years. He was born December 7, 1927, in Hartford, to Theresa and Robert P. McKone. He grew up in Hartford during tough times, and that is where his charismatic personality began to grow. After graduating from Weaver High School, Class of 1945, Bob joined the U. S. Navy. He served for four-and-a-half years, during the last stages of WWII and later during the Korean War, and he was proud of his service. He was very patriotic and a true American. In 1949, he married the love of his life, Alice O’Malley, and he became close to many in the large O’Malley clan. Bob started his career as a printer while in the Navy and continued it for 31 years at the Hartford Courant, retiring in 1990. He also ran a storm window and door service. He met some lifelong friends while working at the Courant. In retirement, Bob and Alice continued to travel and to have frequent family gatherings at their West Hartford home, as they had earlier done in Hartford. He loved his homes and took great care of them. Both Bob and Alice were active hikers and walkers. Bob also loved riding his motorcycle, and in 40 years, he rode almost 100,000 miles, including two cross-country trips. At home, he always had a jigsaw puzzle going, and over the years he made hundreds of them. Bob was a wonderful, generous man whose great personality stayed with him to the end. Most of all, he loved his family. He had a full life and he impacted many. Although he left us many great memories, he will be dearly missed by his family and friends. The world needs more people like him. May he rest in peace.

In addition to his cherished wife, Bob leaves behind four of their children: Thomas R. McKone of Montpelier, VT, Linda H. McKone of Old Saybrook, CT, Larry McKone (wife Carol) of Torrington, CT, and Diane McKone Tinkham (husband Dan) of Gilford, NH. He also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, a great-great-granddaughter, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Roderic McKone of Hartford; his sister, Lauretta Frobel and her husband Francis; his sister, Janet Bannon and her husband Raymond; his brother, Roderic; and his best bud and brother, John (Jack) McKone and his wife Ellie.

Calling hours will be held Friday, December 2, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Sheehan-Hilborn-Breen Funeral Home, 1084 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford. A Christian burial service will be held Saturday, December 3, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery in Rocky Hill. Bob was a member of the American Legion, Hayes-Velhage Post 96, for over 50 years. In lieu of flowers, those who want to are invited to donate to Hayes-Velhage Post 96, P.O. Box 370160, West Hartford, CT 06137-0160. Online condolences may be made at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com