Robert C. Hespelt Sr., age 91, of Waterbury, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, November 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving children. He was the devoted husband for 48 years to the late Janice Connors Hespelt.

Born in Waterbury, Connecticut on April 22, 1935, to Carl and Marie (Grassler) Hespelt, Bob was a lifelong resident and dedicated community figure. He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War with the 810th Air Division, Strategic Air Command at both Biggs Air Force Base in El Paso, Texas, and Thule Air Base in Northwestern Greenland. He earned several commendations, including membership to the Knights of the Blue Nose for crossing the Arctic Circle.

Professionally, he worked as an electrical engineer working on Black Hawk Helicopters at Sikorsky Aircraft. He also worked as a security officer at the Naugatuck Valley Mall to help support his family.

Bob spent his entire life dedicated to his family, church, and community and was always willing to help family members, fellow parishioners, or friends in any way he could. Whether it was a ride to church, a home repair, or an electrical repair, Bob was always willing to lend a hand.

For nearly 50 years, he served SS. Peter and Paul Church as a parish trustee and parish bingo organizer. In recognition of his service to the church, he received the St. Joseph Medal from the Archdiocese. Bob was also a member of the Knights of Columbus of Waterbury.

Bob also contributed to local civic life, serving for many years as an election moderator and instructor for city election moderators. He took the responsibility seriously, protecting the votes as though they were nuclear codes.

Bob was a proud member of the National Rifle Association and the Bell City Rifle Club, as well as a strong advocate for gun safety. He instructed and assisted numerous people in obtaining their gun permits.

Bob’s greatest source of pride was his family, and he treasured the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughters. Bob would never miss a chance to support or cheer on his grandchildren at academic functions, ballet, and sporting events.

Bob and his wife were lifelong UConn basketball fans and they looked forward to every game.

He is survived by his children, Karen Rado (Ed), Cindy Hespelt, Julie Koulouris (Jim), and Robert Hespelt Jr. (Tracy). He also leaves seven grandchildren, Megan, Steven, Nicholas, Alexandra, Dean, Erin, and Ailison, and two great-granddaughters, Hadley and Reese. He was predeceased by his infant son, Joseph Hespelt.

The family would like to acknowledge and thank his caregivers at Compassionate Companions. Special thanks to Jean and her “girls,” who provided exceptional care that allowed Bob to live-out his life as he wished in his home.

Calling hours will be held Monday, November 9, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main Street, Waterbury. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Mary Mother of the Church Parish, St. Leo the Great Church, 15 Bentwood Ave., Waterbury, followed by burial with full military honors at Calvary Cemetery. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Robert to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.