Bob Shaffer Obituary, Death Cause – Bob was a genuine friend and guide to everyone he came into contact with. He had never met a stranger before. Through his gift of music, Bob was able to make a difference in the lives of a vast number of individuals. Throughout the course of more than 40 years, he was successful in spreading happiness through music. His creativity, generosity, and friendliness are qualities that will be sorely missed.
Although he was born in Hartford on April 24, 1926, he spent the majority of his 61-year life in South Windsor. In addition to his love for his late wife, he was a dedicated father to his two daughters, the late Donna O’Connor and Linda Benson, as well as to Linda’s husband, David Benson. His affection for his late wife will be much missed. “Poppy” also leaves behind his seven cherished grandchildren, Brian Goslee and his wife Amy, Kristin VanCamp and her husband Jesse, Kara Tyler and her husband Steve, and their daughter Erika, Shannon O’Connor
Tara Conger and her husband Ryan, Kaitlin Rocheleau and her husband Keith, and Sean O’Connor. His children and their spouses are Brian Goslee, Kristin VanCamp, and Kara Tyler. Along with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he adored his 10 great-grandchildren: Cian, Graden, Gavin, Kylie, Molly, Makenzie, Addison, Kaden, and Isla. In addition, he is survived by his beloved niece Patty Coffey and her husband Tim, who passed away not too long ago and was a devoted friend to Bob; as well as his nephews and their families, including the late Bobby Riggs, Thomas Riggs, Richard Riggs, and Don Riggs. Tim Coffey was a devoted friend to Bob.
After having spent the previous four decades in the role of Civil Engineer for the Department of Transportation for the state of Connecticut, he decided to spend his post-retirement years working for a construction company that is privately held. Bob’s time spent in the United States Navy was something he looked back on with a profound sense of pride and fulfillment. Bob, a veteran of World War II, spoke with a sense of pride about his time spent in the military and kept a thorough notebook while serving on the USS Enoree (AO-69).
He was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 133 in South Windsor, where he was an active volunteer in the annual Wreaths Across America program. He was also proud of his involvement in the recently updated Veteran’s Memorial in South Windsor’s Veteran’s Memorial Park Pool, and he spent more than a decade sharing his experiences in the Navy with elementary school students on Veteran’s Day. He was talented at both playing the piano and gardening. Bob’s happiest years were spent with his wife, Dee. During those years, Bob was an active golfer, bowler, and card player. He also enjoyed spending time with his friends and family.