Robert F. DeFonce, age 78, of West Haven, passed away on November 20, 2022. For 47 years, he was the loving husband of Roberta Daniels DeFonce. Robert was born in Bridgeport, son of the late Thomas Sr. and Madeline McNiff DeFonce. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother William DeFonce of Beacon Falls and several nieces and nephews. Robert was predeceased by his brothers, Thomas Jr., Ralph, James, Charles and John DeFonce, and his sister Madeline Soccodato.

Prior to his retirement, Bob worked as a department head for the Knights of Columbus Supreme Headquarters in New Haven for 28 years. He was a Past Grand Knight of the Holy Family Council, a charter member of the Holy Father John Paul II Council of the former St. John Vianney Church. In total he was proud member of the Knights of Columbus for 52 years. Bob was a former member of the Alumni Board of Directors of Nichols College and the West Haven Italian-American Civic Association, where he previously served as a past president for two terms. He was also a member of West Haven Elks Lodge 1537 for over 30 years. Bob was a former manager for the food pantry at the Beacon on the Hill at Our Lady of Victory Church and a former vice president of the West Haven Emergency Assistance Taskforce, WHEAT. Some of his previous awards include a Trumbull Jaycee of the Year, and along with his wife, Roberta, the Duffy’s Appreciation Award, as well as the West Haven Civic Award in the Spirit of the Jimmy Fund. Bob enjoyed working with his community, always involved with various civic organizations. He also enjoyed working in his yard, spending time with his friends at the WHIA Club and taking road trips to Florida, with his wife Roberta. The family wants to thank the staff of Apple Rehab, for their care and concern during this difficult time.

The hours for visitation will be held on Tuesday from 3-7pm at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. His funeral procession will leave the funeral home on Wednesday morning at 9:30 for a Mass of Christian Burial in Our Lady of Victory Church at 10am. Interment will follow in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Stratford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to WHEAT 674 Washington Avenue West Haven, CT. 06516.