Robert Jeffers

Robert Jeffers, 75, of Willimantic, husband of Diane (Pantlen) Jeffers, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2018, surrounded by his wife Diane and daughter Suzanne.  He was born in Philadelphia, to George and Martha (Herwig) Jeffers.  After completing his Ph. D. at the University of Pennsylvania, he started his 40 year career, as a professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Connecticut.  During his time there, he served as acting head and later head of the department.  One of his great joys was the opportunity to interact with his students.  Towards the latter part of career, he found himself teaching the children of former students.  He helped initiate the Management and Engineering for Manufacturing (MEM) B.S. degree program with the School of Business.  He served in numerous state and regional leadership roles with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) including Region I Vice President, Senior Vice President of the Council on elder Affairs and a member of the Board of Governors.  He also served on the University Senate, the Connecticut State department of Higher Education Transfer Articulation Committee, and was the faculty advisor to Tau Beta Pi (engineering honors society).  He enjoyed building model railroads with his grandfather, parents and son Robert.  An avid stamp collector, he enjoyed traveling, especially with his family the most.  In addition to his wife Diane of 53 years, he is survived by a son Robert Jr. and his wife Cathy and their three children, Hannah, Caroline and Paul; a daughter Suzanne and her husband Mike Souza and their daughter Michaela.  There are no calling hours.  A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am on Friday May 11, 2018 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 96 Oak St., Willimantic, CT 06226.  In lieu of flowers, the donations may be made to St. Paul’s Soup Kitchen, 220 Valley Street, Willimantic, Ct 06226.  For an online memorial guestbook please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com.  

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