Robert J. Unwin

Robert “Bob” J. Unwin, 96, of Kensington, passed away on Monday, Dec. 21, 2015 at Apple Rehab of Farmington Valley.

Born in New Britain, he was the son of the late John C. and Frieda B. (Kramer) Unwin. Bob was a former Southington resident before moving to Kensington in 1992. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II, serving in the Pacific and was a member and former commander of VFW Post 10732. He was formerly employed at Corbin Russwin and Emhart before retiring.

Surviving are his wife, Eleanor (Plonski) Unwin; a son, Robert C. Unwin and his wife Barbara of Kensington; five grandchildren, Reid Gamache, Scott Wasel, Erik Wasel, Amy Vilcinskas, and Laurel Scarozza; ten great-grandchildren; and one great great-granddaughter. Bob was predeceased by his first wife, Peggy A. (Caddick) Unwin, and by his daughter, Judith Wasel.

Bob was the person with the expertise for anything that needed repairing. If parts were not available he would frequently make what was needed. As a young man he liked to build small boats. He earned money for his pilot's license doing odd jobs at the then Bristol airport. He played alto saxophone in small bands as well. As an adult he made furniture for his home. His craftsmanship was perfect to the finest detail. At family gatherings he was well known for his corny jokes and greatly enjoyed the company of his whole family.

Bob was an avid historian with expertise in the Civil War, WW I aircraft and WW II.

As a husband, dad, grandfather, great grandfather, and great-great grandfather, he will be dearly missed by all.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015 at 11 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 So. Main St., New Britain. Burial, with military honors, will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Southington. Calling hours are Monday from 4-6 PM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to the VFW Post 10732, 152 Massirio Dr., Berlin, CT 06037.