Robert H. Tourjee
Deep River — Robert H. Tourjee, 64, passed away Monday, Feb. 13, 2023, at his home.
He was born Nov. 24, 1958, in New London, the son of the late Hugh and Wanda (Poplaski) Tourjee.
Bob worked at Pfizer in Groton for over 20 years before “retiring” to take on the new challenge of woodworking and building furniture. In addition to creating beautiful furniture for family and friends, Bob designed and built impressive traditional English pub rooms at his previous homes in Waterford and Norwalk.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Morianos Tourjee of Deep River; his son, James Tourjee and wife Kathryn and their children, Jacen, Kaylee, and Skyler; his brother, Ken Tourjee and wife Selina and their three children, David, Stephen and Claire; and his son-in-law, Nicholas Stage and wife Gabby and their daughters, Raegan and Rylee Stage. He was predeceased by his beloved daughter Patricia (Trish) Stage.
Bob was a wonderful husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and friend. He was an avid baseball fan, a passion he shared with son Jim and grandson Jacen. As a fan of the New York Yankees, he took great pleasure in attending games at Yankee Stadium with Trish and Jacen. He loved hosting gatherings of family and friends — always trying to ensure that everyone left “fat and happy.” He was also a very patient gardening partner to Kathi as she was taking on new outdoor projects, most recently helping to plant over 100 daffodil bulbs at the entrance of their street. In addition to Bob’s calm and friendly demeanor, he also had a mischievous and fun side that endeared him to all who got to know him.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 14 Prospect St., Essex. Burial will follow in Cedar Grove Cemetery, New London. Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, at Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington St., New London. Donations in Bob’s name to either Our Lady of Sorrows Church or the Deep River Fire Department, 57 Union St., Deep River, CT 06417 would be greatly appreciated. Please visit www.byles.com for directions or to sign the guestbook.