Robert Wassung
East Lyme — Robert B. Wassung of Niantic died Monday, April 16, 2018, at home and at peace.
He was born Jan. 28, 1925, the son of Ruth (Cockburn) Wassung and George Arthur Wassung of Middletown, N.Y. The family moved to Hamden in 1939. Bob was drafted into the Army in 1943 serving in France and Germany. On the GI bill, he attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering. While at RPI, Bob was a member of White Key, Pi Tau Sigma Engineering Society, Phalanx, the college honor society and Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Upon graduating, Bob was employed by the Torrington Company, a manufacturer of roller and needle bearings, with whom he spent his entire 40 years of working life. His final position was that of vice president — international division. He thoroughly enjoyed visiting plants in Germany, England, Japan, Australia and elsewhere. Many of his business associates became personal friends.
Bob was passionate about music — singing and directing choruses from his college days into his 90s. He played big band music with Tuxedo Junction at Bill’s Seafood Restaurant every Monday night for over 25 years. He was proficient at both the clarinet and alto saxophone.
Bob was first married to Harriet Dahlmeyer, with whom he had five children. He later married Mary Neary, who had three children of her own.
He is predeceased by his sister, Jane (Wassung) Adams; and oldest daughter, Lynne Ellen “Missy” Gardner.
He is survived by his beloved blended family; wife Mary, Susan Axtell, Robert Wassung Jr., Katherine Wassung, Mary Jane “MJ” Strauhal, Geoff Neary, William Neary and Patricia Neary; 16 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and three nieces.
He will be sorely missed. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at a later date.
A gift in his memory may be made to the Niantic Community Church or the Department of the Arts/BS in Music at RPI.
Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. www.neilanfuneralhome.com.