Robert Wade Manchester Jr.
August 10, 1939 – August 5, 2025
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of "Bob" on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, just shy of his 86th birthday. Born on August 10, 1939, he was the eldest of two sons to the late Robert Sr. and Rita Manchester (Kelley). A lifelong and proud resident of Cromwell, Bob embraced his community and cherished the town he called home. He was married to Joan Manchester (Anderson) for an incredible 64 years-a union marked by love, partnership, and countless cherished memories.
Bob built a successful career at Amoco Oil Company, where he began as a truck driver and quickly rose up the ranks to Terminal Manager. He retired in 1998 after 33 years of dedicated service. Retirement brought him joy and adventure, allowing him to travel extensively across the United States, Europe, and Asia with Joan by his side and to spend more time with his family and friends. Bob especially treasured local vacations with his wife in Owls Head, Maine, and Cape Cod.
A man of many passions, Bob had an affinity for sports and trucks. He was an ardent supporter of the Boston Red Sox and UConn Huskies and he celebrated all sports within his beloved Cromwell community. In his spare time, he attended many antique truck shows with his sons and brother and he and his wife were devoted volunteers at the Golden Age of Trucking Museum. Bob also loved a good chili dog, well-done steak or piece of prime rib and hot fudge sundae with homemade whip cream!
Bob had an encyclopedic memory and was an amazing storyteller, which showcased his warmth, wit, good humor and charm. He was a dapper dresser and always looked just so with his plaid shirt, khakis, New Balance sneakers and trim haircut.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Joan; his children, Kelly Scarrozzo and her husband, "Middletown" Phil, Brian Manchester and his wife, Carolyn, and Bob Manchester and his wife, Pam; his brother Dennis Manchester and his wife Susan; as well as his beloved 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, whom affectionately referred to him as "Bow Bow", and were a source of immense pride and joy for him.
Bob will be remembered for his unwavering love, dedication and generosity and will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him, including countless family members and friends.
RWW Funeral Home - May 21, 2018