Robert A. “Bob” Besse, 74, of Newtown, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, died December 9. Born in Easton, April 3, 1944, he grew up on a farm and enjoyed tending to and riding horses.

His wife, Rose Mary Besse; his children and their spouses, Jason and Joni Besse of Newtown, Tina and Joe Fiore of New Milford, and Robert and Karen Besse of North Carolina; as well as his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews survive him.

His parents, Daniel and Mary; and his siblings, Elmer, Richard, Walter, Wanda, and Helen, predeceased him.

Mr Besse served in the US Army from 1966 to 1967. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. After his discharge, he married his beloved, Rose Mary. They celebrated 50 years of marriage this past September. The couple resided in Bridgeport until 1979, when they purchased their current home in Newtown.

He worked for many years at Nite Bright Sign company in Monroe and retired from Teknicircuits in Danbury.

Mr Besse was an avid fisherman and loved clamming. He spent many hours at the end of the jetty in Lordship, casting, catching, and releasing. He loved NASCAR racing and the New England Patriots. Most of all, Mr Besse loved to spend time with his family. His favorite times were gathered around the table for one of Rose’s famous meals or spending time by the pool on a hot summer day.

A celebration of his life will take place Saturday, December 15, at 11 am, in the Great Room at Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West Street, Newtown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust, 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring KY 41076 or at dav.org.