Robert M. Styring

Robert Styring, 85, of Southington, passed away on Friday, January 7th at The Hospital of Central Connecticut.

Born in Southington to the late William and Mary (Dudac) Styring, he was a lifelong Southington resident.

He graduated from Southington High School, Class of ’54, Yale University BA ’58, and Trinity College MA ’65. He proudly served in the US Army and retired from the State of Connecticut.

He married the love of his life, Ellen, in 1983, and was a loving father to two sons, Matt and Mark. Bob was a kind, patient, and gentle man. He always listened intently and responded thoughtfully, and the genuine concern he showed for others endeared him to so many. He had a quiet disposition, but an affable manner; he loved to have a conversation with anyone.

Bob was a classically trained violinist, studying with Harold Berkley in Maine, and a member of several symphony orchestras. He enjoyed a toasted poppy seed bagel and decaf coffee; taking long walks wearing his signature bucket cap; being at summer picnics and family holidays – especially Thanksgiving; and reading up on and discussing different perspectives and ideas. Most of all, Bob cherished time spent with his late wife, Ellen, who he so devotedly cared for in her final years, and he adored his beautiful grandchildren, Eleanor and Jax.

He is survived by two sons; Matt Styring and wife Tara; and Mark Styring and wife Jennifer, all of Southington; as well as many close family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Mary Styring; by brothers William Styring Jr. and Richard Styring; and by his wife, Ellen (Waldron) Styring.

In Bob’s memory, donations can be made to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org) or Haven String Quartet – (musichavenct.org)

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 27th at 11am, Oak Hill Cemetery, with a celebration of Bob’s life to be held at a later date. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com