2/28/1970 – 1/15/2023
Eastford – Robert “Robio” Willich, 52, of Schoolhouse Hill Rd., died suddenly Sunday, January 15, 2023. He was the loving life-partner of Cathy Blake. Born in Hartford, he was the son of the late Richard Leroy and Jereanne (Knight) Willich.
Robert worked many years as a heavy equipment operator at Holden Construction and most recently as construction manager for MDG.
He earned his Eagle Scout with Troop 27 in Woodstock in 1988. Rob ventured to CO after high school to obtain his Diesel mechanic certification. This gave him the desire to travel the country. Robio lived life to the fullest with a zest for adventure, Smile on his face, Jameson Reserve in his hand, stirring the pot with no limitations to person or topic, aggravating his nurses, all with music in the background. Trips through the Woods of NE on his ATV with family in friends in tow, the human GPS always brought the group home safely. His passion was wind therapy with a destination unknown but known following the front tire would bring him solace. Galavanting across the countryside ensuring to get dirt in his travel brought him much joy. The purchase of his Harley in Arizona led to many two wheel excursions with family and friends from Daytona, Sturgiss, and the Dragon’s Tail in TN.
Rob is survived by his life-partner Cathy Blake of Quinebaug, his sisters Jennifer Willich of Eastford (Bob), Marsha Willich of Edgewater, FL (Julie) and Rebecca Gould of Woodstock (Raymond). He was greatly loved and adored by his extended Blake Family. He also leaves nieces and nephew Amber, Alexis, Charles, Abbey and Olivia, two great-nephews CJ and Miles, and an abundance of cousins and close friends.
The families would like to express sincere gratitude to Rob’s medical surgeons for countless years of devotion resulting in a unique friendship and unbreakable bond.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Rob’s family from 11:00AM to 1:00PM on Sunday, January 22, 2023 at the Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church St, Putnam, CT 06260, immediately followed by a blessing and sharing of kind words. A Celebration of Rob’s life will be held at a later date. For a memorial guestbook please visit www.GilmanAndValade.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rob’s memory to the Hartford Children’s Hospital or the National Kidney Foundation, Hamden, CT.
Mallory
A life well lived and loved leaves unbearable grief for those remaining. He made the world a better place.
Erni and RHUFF
Guys, I am so unbelievably sad to hear this news. He had the perfect humor and was an amazing guy. My sincerest sympathies
Mary Ann Phaneuf
So sorry to hear the news of Robio’s passing. He was such a kind soul and touched so many lives in the very best way. Holding all of you close in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeffrey Williams
Please accept my condolences to all who’s life was enriched and their heart blessed by Roberts presence. There are no words to ease the deep sense of loss by Roberts passing. I offer two prayers one for strength and unity and one for guidence in the days to come
Jennifer Kinghorn
Sorry to hear of his passing. His sister Becky was in my grade at the academy a very nice girl. I grew up with the kids across the street from his house (kinghorn) being my best friends and we ran into robert all the time. He was always so nice. Condolences to all his family and friends.
Dawn
My sincere condolences, prayers sent, rest in peace ️️
Shari green
A life cut to short but Rob lived life to the fullest, and pulled everyone with him.Deepest sympathy Shari &Dave
Barbara Casey
Marsha and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know our prayers are with you at this sad time.
Love,
Nana and Papa Casey
John Mottram
Rob is an amazing spirit. Always loyal, fun and brought to our lives an irreplaceable presence that will truly be missed.
Love you Robio!
Debbie Brine
My heart goes out to you Cathy and all of Rob’s family and friends. I may have met him only a couple of times but so remember his exceptional character and humor. He will be deeply missed. Cherish all those happy memorable moments forever as another bright star will be shining above us all.
Diane Dery
Please accept my condolences at this time. Losing a sibling is not easy. If anyone needs a shoulder, I’m here!
Diane
Leigh Altieri
Cathy, sending you Californa prayers and condolences.
Diane E Pierce
Sorry for your loss. My prayers will always be with you during this difficult time
Mary Beyer
To Marsha, Becky and Jen and of course Cathy. My sincere sympathy to all of you. Rob always has kept up a good fight to live for these many years. He certainly went thru a lot. May he rest in peace with your Mom and Dad. Love to you all Mary