Robert L. Barnum

Robert L. Barnum, age 87 of Fairfield, beloved husband of 65 years of Helen K. Barnum, passed away Thursday, January 7, 2016. Born in Bridgeport, the son of the late Edwin and Bertha Barnum, he had been a Fairfield resident for most of his life. Bob graduated from Roger Ludlowe High School, class of 1945, where he played on the state championship football team earning the nickname, "Boom Boom". He also played on the semi-pro football team, the Fairfield Tigers. Bob was also an accomplished boxer in his day. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a Sgt. and Squad Leader in the 19th Infantry Regiment participating in the occupation of Japan. Following the War Bob began his career as a truck mechanic for National Transportation and then retiring as a Shop Steward for Mack Truck in Bridgeport. He was a member of American Legion Post 74 and a long-time member of First Church Congregational where he participated in many of the Church functions. Bob was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, skiing and scuba diving. He was a member of the Housatonic Fly Fisherman Association. Survivors in addition to his loving wife and best friend, Helen include three beloved sons, Robert T. Barnum and his wife Pamela of Milford, Thomas R. Barnum and his wife Nancy of Windsor, MO and Peter T. Barnum and his wife Maria of Deep River; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Edward Barnum and a sister, Helen Anderson. A funeral service will be held Monday, January 11, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at First Church Congregational, Fairfield with the Rev's. David Spollett and Jennifer Campbell officiating. Military honors will be rendered at the conclusion of the service. Interment will be private. Friends may call Sunday from 3-7 p.m. in the Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Rd., Fairfield. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to First Church Congregational, 148 Beach Road, Fairfield, CT 06824. For information or to sign an online guest register please visit www.SpearMillerFuneralHome.com