Robert H. Appleby, Sr. age 79 of Stratford, passed away on Sunday, November 14, 2021 in St. Vincent’s Hospital. Bob died peacefully with his children by his side. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 57 years, Lucille Appleby. They were high school sweethearts, and now Bob has reunited with Lucille in time to celebrate their 59th wedding anniversary this November 17th. Bob is survived by his loving children, Michele Appleby, Robert Appleby, Jr. (Darice), and Craig Appleby (Mishelle); his grandchildren, Nicolas Guerra, Ashley, Sofia, and Alivia Appleby; his sister, Linda Hammill and brother, Joseph ‘Skip’ Appleby (Beverly); brother-in-law and sister-in-law Raymond and Denise Kaminski; and several nieces and nephews. Bob graduated from Bullard Havens as a mason and auto mechanic by trade. He retired as an Aircraft Mechanic of 37 years from Avco Lycoming. Afterwards, he started up his small lawn and handyman service on the side. He also organized and planned the Annual Retirement Dinner for Depts 126F & 123Q. Bob played many sports and was on several teams, too many to mention them all. Most notably, he played softball for the Avco Lycoming Turbos and went to Nationals. He played for the over 50 Sunday morning league and the Stratford Old Timers Association. Bob bowled on the Tom McConnell League, Nutmeg League and Monarch League. He also played basketball for the Milford over 50 League. Bob never hung up his cleats! Bob’s favorite teams were the Giants and Yankees, and you can find him fishing on his Grady White. He was a longtime parishioner and Usher of St. Mark Church in Stratford. Bob was a big family man, he loved being around his children and grandchildren. You could see him at the field watching them play lacrosse, field hockey or perform in music concerts. He was extremely proud of each and every one of them. Bob was loved by everybody. He was a very giving and generous man who would help anyone in need. He made many friends throughout his life and treasured every one of them. He was affectionately named "The Mayor of Anson Street". The family would like to thank Drs. Tiano, Alter and Tristine who gave him such loving care, as well as the CHF Clinic at St. Vincent's Medical Center (Lee, Mariana, Diane & Susie), and the nursing staff on the 6th floor at St. Vincent's Hospital who provided such wonderful care. Donations to be made to American Heart Association (heart.org) and American Lung Association (lung.org). The funeral will be held on Friday, November 19 at 9 a.m. at the Pistey Funeral Home, 2155 Main Street, Stratford and at 10 a.m. at St. Mark Church, 500 Wigwam Lane, Stratford. Interment will follow in St. John Cemetery, Monroe. Friends may call on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. at the Pistey Funeral Home.