Robert J. Pape, a director of American-Republican, Incorporated, for 40 years, died July 30 at 85, one day before his birthday.
Pape, most recently of Flagler Beach, Fla., was a cousin of the late William J. Pape II, the former publisher and editor of the Republican- American who died in April.
Robert Pape served on the newspaper’s board of directors from 1976 to 2016, when he resigned and was recognized by his fellow directors for his service.
“In 40 years, Bob rarely missed a meeting and has participated in board discussions and supported board actions which resulted in some of the most successful years of the newspaper,” read a resolution signed by William J. Pape II, then board chairman, and Thomas G. Parisot, secretary. “As the newspaper business has encountered difficult times, his wise counsel and calm and thoughtful advice were appreciated by his fellow board members and company officials,” the tribute read.
Robert Pape was born in Waterbury on July 31, 1933, the son of Katherine Moran and Eric A. Pape, who had been an official of American-Republican, Inc. and the related Eastern Color Printing and Paper Delivery, Inc.
He was a graduate of Watertown High School and the University of Connecticut. He served in the Marines during the Korean War, and his 43 years of service to his country included the Connecticut State Guard, the Connecticut National Guard, the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Army, and a patrolman for the East Coast for the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
He worked at Chesebrough-Ponds in Clinton and Electric Boat Co. in New London. He retired as a civilian employee for the Department of the Navy.
Pape was a golfer, boater and a pilot, and owned four planes during his lifetime. He put his planes and boat to work in retirement when he joined the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
He was a docent at the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach for more than 20 years. He served at St. Mary’s Church in Korona, Fla. on the financial board and as a reader.
He enjoyed travel and reading.
He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Eric, David and Peter Pape; and by his son, Steve Pape.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Mary Lou (Campbell) Pape, children, Patricia, Matthew and Martha Pape Adams with her husband, Mark and three grandsons, Jack, Luke and Mark Adams.
Copyright (c) 2019 Republican-American 8/4/2019
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