Obituary: Robert F. Shaw Jr., 74, of Watertown

Obituary courtesy of Hickcox Funeral Home

WATERTOWN- Robert F. Shaw Jr. 74, passed away on March 30, 2021, at home, surrounded by family. He was married to Susan (Sniokis) Shaw for 53 years.

Robert was born in Waterbury on October 1,1946, to the late Robert F. and Antoinette (Grandpre) Shaw. He graduated from St. Ann’s Grammar School, Croft High School, and Quinnipiac College with a degree in Business Administration. He moved to Watertown in 1977, and was employed as a Route Salesman for Frito-Lay and Bachman Inc. for many years. He also was a proud member of The Next Street Driving School Family in Watertown.

An avid Yankee, Giants, and UCONN fan, Robert was also a softball official for the Greater Waterbury Softball Umpires and a basketball official with the IAABO Litchfield Board 7. He enjoyed the opportunity to be actively involved in these two sports he loved and to share with players, coaches, and spectators the excitement of the game. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Ojeda Council and the Loyal Order of the Hibernians.

Robert was a caring and compassionate individual who was known as “The Bread Man” for many years as he delivered bread to the soup kitchen and churches in the Waterbury area. A communicant of St. John the Evangelist Church, he supported Caroline’s Place and helped to make meatloaf dinners for delivery to the St Vincent DePaul soup kitchen every month for many years.

Throughout his years Robert always enjoyed hosting the Bob Shaw Picnics and Christmas Eve Celebrations. He was most happy when those around him were enjoying the opportunity to share good times and special memories. The trips to Aruba with the many suitcase experiences will always bring a smile to remember.

Besides his parents, Robert was predeceased by his brother Earl “Chuck” Shaw II.

In addition to his wife Susan, Robert leaves his three sons, Scott Shaw, Kevin Shaw, M.D., and Ryan Shaw; his two sisters, Delia “Dee” Mayell and Jacklyn “Jackie” Welsh; his niece, Sarah Glidden; and nephews, Alan Welsh Jr., and Eric Shaw. Robert was also blessed with his grandchildren, Alicia, Scott Michael Jr., Olivia, Kyle, Nathan, Connor, William, and Ryannen. He also leaves his many cousins, co-workers, friends from the gym, as well as his umpire and referee colleagues, all who knew him each in their own light. A very special thank you to a long-time neighbor, Maureen, for her love, care, and compassion throughout the years and especially in these recent days.

Funeral services will be held Friday evening, 7 p.m., at the Hickcox Funeral Home, 195 Main St. Walk-through calling hours will be held Friday 5 p.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Caroline’s Place or the St. Vincent DePaul Soup Kitchen in his memory.

Robert was always there for family and friends. The lesson he leaves us with is to always appreciate what you have and always support those in need. In this way we all will cherish and respect his memory.