Robert J. Irwin

Robert Irwin, age 86, passed away in his home July 7, 2020. Bob was born in the Bronx, New York, March 2, 1934 and was the son of the late Henry and Nora Irwin. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather and uncle. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Leanore (Lynn), daughters Leeann and Elisa, and spouses, predeceased Marissa, and spouse, grandchildren Kieran and Andrew, sister Joannie Scollard, and nieces and nephews.
Bob attended Roman Catholic schools, graduating from Manhattan College, with Masters and post Masters degrees from Fairfield University. During his retirement he pursued his lifelong interest, the study of archeology, including classes and digs.

His long and diverse teaching career began while in the Air Force where he taught electronics at Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi. His career in industry forged his electronics and physics expertise. With changes in industry Bob courageously changed careers to support his family by moving into teaching full time. Bob taught physics and math at Jonathan Law High School in Milford for over twenty years. He was also an adjunct faculty member at the University of Bridgeport and the former Norwalk State Technical College.

He strongly identified with his Irish and Bronx heritage, had a prolific sense of humor and wide-ranging interests, and enjoyed sharing them all through socializing with family and friends. He was an avid reader with a wide interest in physics, science, politics, and religion. His lifelong interest in ancient Egypt led him to travel to the Great Pyramid of Giza and other sites in Egypt. He and Lynn were great travelers, visiting many continents and traveling to see their daughters living in Guatemala, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Bob and Lynn's enthusiasm for music and cultural events lead them to be regular contributors to the Bridgeport Symphony and volunteers at the Quick Center at Fairfield University. Bob's powerful personality and optimism helped him to fight cancer for many years. People who knew him, whether for a lifetime or just a short time, will miss his vitality, strength, and humor.

A small funeral Mass was held July 11 at Our Lady of the Assumption in Fairfield. A memorial service is planned for later this year. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital, stjude.org or 800-822-6344.