Robert, known as Peter to most, was born April 1, 1942 in Waterford, Connecticut. He graduated Waterford High School in 1961. He was an accomplished athlete, playing basketball, track, and excelled at shot put and discus. He held the Connecticut state record in shot put for more than twenty years at nearly fifty-three feet.
Peter started working at his parents' hardware store, Waterford Hardware, when he was just thirteen. In 1962, Peter joined the boilermakers union and began an apprenticeship, ultimately becoming a nuclear inspector for General Dynamics Electric Boat. As an inspector, he worked on Trident Submarines, the Nautilus submarine overhaul in 1968 and in 1979, he certified the reactors of the USS Phoenix.
After retiring from General Dynamics in 1981, the family moved to Phoenix, AZ where Peter continued working as a nuclear inspector for Bechtel Corporation. His duties included inspecting the reactors at the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station. In 1987, Bechtel completed the project. From there, he spent four years with the Arizona Public Service before embarking on a new challenge.
Known for his strict work ethic, in 1991 Peter went back to school and received a certificate of completion in wastewater distribution. He worked for the City of Phoenix until retiring permanently in 2004.
Always loyal to his native New England, Peter enjoyed cheering for all of Boston's sports teams and watching NASCAR. He loved playing golf and cribbage. Peter was president of the Phoenix Irish Cultural Center. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge 360 for fifty-two years.
Peter is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carole of 55 years, brothers Howard and Mike, parents, Harold and Dorothy.
Peter will be forever remembered by his three children Stacey, Bobby, Harold and their spouses, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
A Catholic mass will be celebrated in memory of Peter on January 20th at 11:00 am at St. Joseph's Church in New London, CT. He'll be buried alongside his wife, Carole, at Jordan Cemetery in Waterford, CT.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Peter can be made to the Banner Alzheimer's Foundation.
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