Obituary of Robert Humphrey Hartshorn Jr.

He was born in the heart of Pennsylvania with his sisters, Peggy and Berta, and brother, Bill; but his heart belonged to Connecticut where he grew up with his mom and dad. He was the youngest child of Robert and Rita Hartshorn. He passed away exactly as he wished, not in Louisiana. Instead, he was in a state that he loved at his daughter, Chelsea’s home in California, and his body now rests back in Connecticut near his parents. 

We all lovingly knew him as Bob, brother, dad, or puppy, and he would probably add a few other names that he’s been called not so lovingly. Bob’s life was imbued with his contagious sense of humor, unwavering determination, and an abundance of unconditional love.

Besides his radiating love, Bob’s stubbornness was another defining trait. It was this tenacity that fueled his inventiveness. He never shied away from a challenge, always seeking innovative solutions to life’s problems which often included plenty of WD-40, duct tape, and spray foam. He was able to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary with his skillful hands and imaginative mind. 

Bob had many talents. Among them was his unique ability to convey love without uttering a word through the countless memories we can all look back on. Like his love for animals. Even though he played it cool, it was apparent that Bob enjoyed all animals from his talking crow to his companion Cookie but especially his most recent lap-kitty, Sweetie. 

Among Bob’s lengthy and rather complicated list of loves, Sabrina held a special place in his life for 40 years. Their faith provided strength during challenging times and enhanced the beautiful moments. Their love was a vessel for the Lord to work miracles. Bob’s undoubtedly close relationship with God brought him strength in times of adversity and humility in times of triumph, and he delighted in sharing (not necessarily following) all the spiritual wisdom he gathered, encouraging others to live with a deep affinity for God and most importantly not to fear death.

But perhaps the greatest love in Bob’s life was reserved for his children. Their presence brought him immense joy, and he always encouraged them to pursue their dreams, no matter how ambitious they may have seemed. His legacy lives on through them, as they carry forward his humor, determination, and love for life. 

Bob is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Sabrina, who stood by his side through thick-and-thin; his children Barbra, Danielle, Robert, Corrina, Charity, and Chelsea; nine grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.  Bob always had advice, a joke, or a story to share.  

A Graveside Service will be held on Monday, February 12, 2024, at 10:00AM in Pine Grove Cemetery, 15 Church Street, Ansonia, CT.  The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia is in care of arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.