Robert Alexander Beer, age 89, was born on September 10, 1936, in Waterbury. He lived a life deeply devoted to his family and his church, passing on values of loyalty, generosity, faith, and hard work to all who knew him.

Robert proudly served in the United States Navy Reserves for eight years while pursuing his undergraduate studies at Valparaiso University, where he majored in accounting. His academic excellence earned him the Indiana CPA Award for finishing first in accounting and The Wall Street Journal Award for graduating first in the business school. He went on to earn his MBA from Indiana University, his law degree from Valparaiso University, and later his Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Harvard Law School.

Robert practiced law as a trusts and estates attorney with Cummings & Lockwood in Stamford for 40 years. Even after retirement, he continued to practice from home, maintaining a small group of long-time clients who had become more like family than work.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Ruby Fern Beer, affectionately known as “Oma,” and by his four daughters: Jeanette Becker, Pam Silberfein, Amy Fenzel, and Kristen Hole. He was a devoted father-in-law to Matthew Becker, Eric Silberfein, Jim Fenzel, and Brian Hole and a proud grandfather to thirteen grandchildren: Zack, Caitlin, and Nick Becker; Graham, Colin, and Lucy Silberfein; Charlie, Josephine, Benjamin, and Ruby Fenzel; and Olivia, Katherine, and Lily Hole.

His greatest joy was time spent at his home in Newtown, caring for his land and creating a place where family gatherings were always fun, welcoming and memorable. “Everything’s better in Newtown” became a cherished family saying — one his grandchildren knew firsthand and eagerly anticipated, knowing it meant time with Oma and Opa Bob, as he was lovingly called.

Robert was loyal and generous, hardworking and funny, and always ready to tell a story, especially those from his childhood, including the mischievous pranks he was grateful to have gotten out of his system at a young age. His warmth, faith, and steady presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who loved him.

Calling hours will be held at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street in Newtown, on Tuesday, February 3, from 4-7 pm. The 10 am Wednesday funeral service will take place at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 85 Mt Pleasant Road in Newtown. Interment at Newtown Village Cemetery will be in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ the King Lutheran Church.