Robert L. Burgess Jr

Robert L. Burgess Jr., 81, of Willimantic, husband of Bernice (Berube) Burgess, died Friday June 18, 2004 at the Haven Health Center in Willimantic. He was born Aug. 2, 1922 in Groton the son of Robert Burgess Sr. and Marie C. (Stolzenbach) Burgess. After graduating from high school, Bob volunteered for the armed services. He served in the Army Air Corps mostly as a tail gunner. He fought in the Battle of Normandy and also served in South Africa. He was honorably discharged as a Corporal. After the war, Bob was employed by Southern New England Telephone Co. for 33 years, retiring as a foreman in 1977. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and trapper who loved nature. He maintained a floral business on the side for many years and also enjoyed owning and trading guns and fishing equipment. Bob could very often be found at yard sales, tag sales and flea markets or trading stories at local early morning breakfast establishments. He loved his cats and had numerous pets throughout his life. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son and daughter in law, Robert L. and Martha Burgess of Eastford and 2 grandchildren, Stacy and Jason. He was predeceased by his sister Patricia Burgess. His family will receive friends at the Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic on Wednesday from 1:00 to 2:00pm prior to a 2:00pm funeral home service. Burial with military honors will follow in the New Willimantic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, his family suggests memorial donations to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; ASPCA Membership and Donor Services, 424 East 92nd St. 4th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10128. Please visit at www.potterfh.com for online memorial guestbook and directions.