Robert W. Shepley

Middlebury - Robert W. Shepley, 80, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Yale New Haven Hospital. He was the husband of Irene (Czarzasty) Shepley.

Bob was born December 20, 1944, in Waterbury, the son of the late Lawrence and Evelyn (Rich) Shepley. He graduated from Naugatuck High School and continued his education at Waterbury State Technical College, where he studied Firefighting and Hazmat Training. He served his country in the Naval Reserves. In 1971, he was hired as a firefighter for the Borough of Naugatuck and worked his way up through the ranks, ultimately becoming Fire Chief before his retirement in 1996.

Bob could often be found at local car shows with his partner (grandson) and best friend, Brad. These shows were organized by the Seymour Lions, Fritz’s, and, notably, the Yankee Cruisers, where it all began. If you saw Bob, you would also see Bradley; they were rarely apart. On days without car shows, Bob enjoyed shopping, attending tag sales, and exploring different pizza places with his grandson, Brett, and his wife, Irene—the three musketeers. Additionally, Bob had a passion for hunting in Vermont and participated in trips with his friends for nearly 50 years, never missing a single year up until his last trip in November.

Knowing Bob means having known the best person possible; that's a common sentiment when his name comes up.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, as well as his cherished daughter, Tammy Rotatori, and her fiancé, James Black, of Oxford. He is also survived by his brother, Lawrence Shepley (Lorraine), and his sisters, Diane Geiger (Rog) and Darlene Bodnar (Gerry). Additionally, he leaves behind nieces and nephews and his grandchildren, Brad and Brett Rotatori, who were the light of his life.

Arrangements – Funeral services and burial will be held at the convenience of the family, and there are no calling hours. The Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Stroke Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or by clicking HERE.