Robert Allyn Coutu

After a five and one half year hard fought battle with cancer, Robert Allyn Coutu, 75, surrounded by family, died at his Windham Center home on Saturday, August 15, 2015. Bob was the son of the late Joseph A. Coutu and Helen (Morrison) Coutu, and was born in Willimantic on June 12, 1940. Bob was a 1958 graduate of Windham High School and a 1960 graduate of the Post-Grad Automotive program at Windham Regional Technical School. With a tool box, a dream, and a fervent work ethic, Bob started his automotive business in 1970. Through his honesty and integrity, he built Coutu Auto Sales, (Truck Country), into a thriving truck parts business. His vision and determination led him to truly achieve the American Dream. Bob was a Life-Member of BPOE #1311; Board of Directors of Connecticut Auto Recyclers Association; member Connecticut Towing Association; Windham Democratic Town Committee; Chairman Windham Zoning Board of Appeals; Nutmeg Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society; Connecticut Area Classic Thunderbird Club; Rear Gears Auto Modifiers; and the Classic Thunderbird Club International. Bob is survived by his wife of fifty-four years, Alice-Mae (Grover) Coutu, his daughter Susan & husband Gary Lussier of Canterbury, CT, son Robert J. Coutu & wife Vanessa of Norwich, CT, daughter Bonnie L. Pettus and husband Kenneth of Greenville, South Carolina, three adored grandchildren, Brian Volle and fiance Tonya Cicio, Brook Lussier, and Rebecca Lussier and three special great grandchildren, Kaylee Cicio, Khloe Volle, and Kalie-Anna Volle. Bob was predeceased by his sister Claire Coutu Michaud and his brother Donald J. Coutu. Calling hours will be held at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT on Wednesday, August 19, 2015 from 3:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, August 20, 2015, 10:30 A.M. at St. Mary's Church, Valley Street, Willimantic, CT, with assembly at church. Burial will follow at the Windham Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Smilow Cancer Center, 20 York Street, New Haven, CT. 06510 or St. Mary's Church, 80 Maple Ave., Willimantic, CT. 06226. For an online memorial guestbook please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .