Robert Bartlett Hempstead

Robert Bartlett Hempstead, 69, of Wethersfield, beloved husband of Sally Hempstead, passed away on Friday (January 16, 2009), at Yale-New Haven Hospital from complications of injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Born on July 18, 1939, Bob grew up in Quaker Hill, CT. He is a graduate of Tufts University in Massachusetts and Yale Law School. Practicing law for more than 40 years in Hartford, Bob was a member of both the Connecticut and Florida Bars and was a central figure in the establishment of the cable sports network, ESPN. He was also a member of the Wethersfield Lions Club for many years. In addition to his wife of 45 years, he is survived by his mother, Almeda Hempstead; his brother, Richard Hempstead and his wife, Nelda; and his two children, Robert Hempstead and his wife, Jacqueline, and Amy Paradis and her husband, Raynold. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Nathan and Jane; his nieces, Kate and Sarah; and his beloved cat, Floyd. He is predeceased by his father, Robert Ezra Hempstead. At the request of the family, the funeral and burial will be private and no calling hours will be held. Memorial donations may be made to the Northern Middlesex YMCA, 99 Union Street, Middletown, CT 06457. Lastly, the family would like to express sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Yale-New Haven Hospital for their compassion and care. For on-line condolences, please visit: www.desopo.com