Robert “Bob” Kleffmann, a cherished resident of Orange, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024, at the remarkable age of 90. Born on July 13, 1934, in the vibrant Bronx, New York, Bob was the son of the late August and Anne Kleffmann. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Dolores Heizman Kleffmann, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and adventures.
For over 50 years, Bob was a devoted member of the Milford Yacht Club, where he embraced his passion for sailing on the serene waters. His culinary enthusiasm led him to become a distinguished member of the Gourmet Club of Orange, where for more than 40 years he enjoyed the camaraderie of friends as they crafted and savored exquisite meals together. Additionally, Bob proudly served as a past Commodore of the Windjammers Sail Club, where he fostered friendships and a strong love for the sailing community.
Romance blossomed for Bob when he met his future wife at a charming church dance in New York City. Their love story culminated in marriage a few years later, leading them on a beautiful journey filled with shared dreams. In search of a more tranquil lifestyle, the couple settled in Orange, Connecticut, yet they maintained their strong connection to the thrilling pulse of New York City, returning often to the place they once called home.
In addition to his beloved wife, Dolores, Bob is survived by his sister-in-law Joyce Marzano and her husband Frank, along with his brother-in-law Charles Heizman and his wife Lee. He leaves behind a loving legacy of nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as a host of dear family and friends who will always remember his generous spirit.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, November 25, 2024, for a visitation from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Holy Infant Church, located at 450 Racebrook Rd, Orange, CT 06477, followed by a heartfelt Mass of Christian Burial that will commence at 12 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to meet directly at the church.
A Graveside Service will take place on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Kensico Cemetery, situated at 273 Lakeview Ave, Valhalla, NY 10595. Guests are requested to meet directly at the cemetery.
To light a candle or leave a condolence, please visit www.CodyWhiteFuneralHome.com.
How did Dolores Heizman Kleffmann describe her partnership and shared experiences with Bob?
**Interview with Dolores Heizman Kleffmann about Robert “Bob” Kleffmann**
**Editor:** Good evening, Dolores. Thank you for joining us to remember your beloved husband, Bob. He led quite a remarkable life. Can you share a bit about what made Bob special?
**Dolores:** Good evening, and thank you for having me. Bob was truly one of a kind. His kindness and warmth touched everyone he met. He had this incredible ability to make people feel special and loved. What I will cherish most is how we shared our lives together—families, friends, and adventures.
**Editor:** It sounds like you had a wonderful partnership. Can you tell us about some of your favorite memories together?
**Dolores:** Absolutely! We had so many adventures. Bob loved sailing, and for over 50 years as a member of the Milford Yacht Club, he spent countless hours on the water. He felt so free there, and I loved watching him light up during those moments. We also shared wonderful evenings at the Gourmet Club of Orange. He had a passion for cooking and fine dining, and those meals with friends were some of the happiest times in our lives.
**Editor:** That sounds lovely. Bob reached the impressive age of 90 and had such vibrant interests. How did he stay so engaged and active in his hobbies over the years?
**Dolores:** Bob had an incredible zest for life. He believed in staying active both physically and mentally. Sailing kept him fit, and he was always reading and trying out new recipes. He also really valued the friendships he built through the yacht club and Gourmet Club. Those connections were important to him; they kept his spirit youthful and gave him so much joy.
**Editor:** It’s wonderful to hear how much he cherished his passions. How will you remember him moving forward?
**Dolores:** I will carry his memory in my heart every day. Bob was my partner in every sense—my confidante, my friend, and my love. I plan to continue some of the traditions we built together, like hosting friends for dinner and celebrating life’s simple pleasures. His love for life and for others will always guide me.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dolores, for sharing those beautiful memories of Bob with us. He sounds like a remarkable man who will be dearly missed.
**Dolores:** Thank you for letting me honor him in this way. It means a lot to me.
