Obituary: Robert F Hackbarth, 89, of Madison, formerly East Haven

Obituary courtesy of Guilford Funeral Home:

Robert F Hackbarth of Madison passed away peacefully at home in the company of his beloved wife of 63 years Elizabeth Louise Hackbarth (Picket) and family on January 27, 2022, after a lengthy illness.

Bob was born in New Haven, CT on June 5, 1932. He was the son of Herman W. Hackbarth and Rose Ann Hackbarth (Colwell). Bob grew up in East Haven and graduated from East Haven High School and New Haven State Teachers College (Southern CT State University). Bob retired in 1991 after a 35-year teaching career in the East Haven Public Schools. Bob served as President of East Haven Education Association and on the board of directors for the East Haven Municipal Employees Credit Union. When school was out Bob ran his home improvement and building business well into his seventies, often working for or employing his fellow teachers and family members.

Bob had many interests including gardening, fishing, and boating. For years Bob with the help of his wife and children had a small family farm that included horses, cows, chickens, turkeys, and other livestock. He enjoyed spending time at the family cottage in Guilford and loved boating and fishing. What he loved most was spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Bob is survived by his four children: Katherine M. Hackbarth of Jewett City; Susan E. Fillion and her husband Steve of Killingworth; William C. Hackbarth of Hampton, NH; and Michael J Hackbarth and his wife Kate of Clinton. Bob is also survived by his sister Arlene Hackbarth of East Haven and his brother Dennis Hackbarth of Pacific Palisades, CA. Bob also leaves behind six grandchildren; Rebecca, Steven, Adam, Sarah, Mary Kate, and Saoirse; and three great-grandchildren. Bob was predeceased by his parents, his brother Dr Clifford J. Hackbarth, and his lifelong friend and fishing buddy Ralph Lenoce of North Haven.

Current Services will be held privately. A separate memorial service for family and friends will be held on June 19, 2022.