Obituary of Robert Louis Talerico

CHESHIRE- Robert Louis Talerico, 83, passed away Friday, September 21, 2018 at LiveWell (formerly Alzheimer's Resource Center) in Southington. He was married to Mary Jane (Pacciarelli) Talerico, his high school sweetheart, who was the love of his life.  They recently celebrated 60 years of marriage. 

Dr. Talerico was born December 13, 1934 in Utica, NY, the son of the late Louis J. and Evelyn M. (Kunkel) Talerico.

Bob was a graduate of the New York State College of Forestry at Syracuse University where he received his bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D degrees.  He served in the army as a medic from 1961-1963.  In 1966 Bob and his wife moved to Cheshire and raised their three children.  He was employed as a Forest Entomologist for the United States Forest Service prior to his retirement.  During his tenure with the Forest Service he worked in East Lansing, MI, Harrisonburg, VA, Hamden, CT and Broomall, PA.  In his retirement, he was employed by Cheshire Nursery and Vinny's Garden Center.  Dr. Talerico had a deep love for the environment and enjoyed spending time outside.  He instilled in his children a respect for the forest and all creatures, great and small.  Bob was a man of great integrity and honor, had a strong work ethic, and lived by his word; qualities he passed on to his children and grandchildren.  He was a true gentleman; an exemplary husband, father and human being.  He had a warm and friendly smile; a great sense of humor; impeccable character; and was loved by all who knew him. 

In his spare time, Bob was an avid reader, cyclist, runner and a lifetime member of the Hamden Fish and Game Club.  He enjoyed attending traditional jazz concerts and going for rides along the shore with his wife, and had an affinity for all things sweet.  Bob enjoyed watching his grandchildren grow up and looked forward to yearly trips to Kentucky and Missouri with his wife to visit them. 

His family would like to thank the entire staff at LiveWell for the care and compassion they showed Bob during his two-year residency there.  In particular, heartfelt gratitude for those exceptional "angels" on 2A who provided his day-to-day care; especially those who lovingly ensured his comfort during his final hours.

Dr. Talerico is survived by his son, Richard, and his wife Elizabeth Talerico, of Wildwood, MO; two daughters, Robin A. Storrs, and Christine M. Talerico, both of Cheshire; eight grandchildren: William, Ian, and Olivia Storrs; Dr. Michael and his wife, Dr. Christina Talerico; Caitlin and her husband Mark “Bo” Lucas Jr.; Mairin, and her husband, Joseph Querciagrossa; Aidan Talerico; and Kieran Talerico; three great-grandchildren: Avery and Riley Talerico; Patrick Querciagrossa; and Baby Girl Lucas on the way. 

To his caregivers, Robert Dula and his wife Joanna Czupryna, the family is eternally grateful.

Arrangements- Calling Hours for Dr. Talerico will be held 5 to 7 P.M, Thursday, September 27, 2018 at The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home, 615 South Main St, 06410. Robert’s funeral will be held 10 A.M, Friday, September 28, 2018 at the funeral home. A private burial will take place in Cheshire Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Bob’s name to LiveWell, 1261 South Main Street, Plantsville, CT 06479.