Robert (Bob) Carl Impresa passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at The Landing of North Haven. Born in Waterbury, Connecticut on May 17, 1938, Bob was the son of the late Susan Maria Lorusso Blechner and Nicholas Impresa. He is also predeceased by his loving sister, Gertrude L. Blechner Lopes, step-father, William Blechner, step-mother, Susan (Ventresca) Lorusso Impresa and wife, Joan E. Lucas, and is survived by his loving nieces, Susan M. Nuzzo, Lucia M. Nuzzo, Giana G. Nuzzo, nephew-in-law, Gerard A. Nuzzo, and nephews, John (Lesley) Lopes and Daniel (Tom) Lopes. Bob was an accomplished Chemist and Chemical Engineer earning degrees from The University of Connecticut, Central Connecticut State University and Providence College. In 1999 He retired as a professor and the Director of Chemistry from Waterbury State Technical College and went on to open Max Water Lab in Watertown, Connecticut. When he wasn’t tending to his lab and teaching/performing chemistry at school expositions for children, he enjoyed being home at his lake cottage fishing and boating, and hosting many parties with big fireworks displays. He spent time souring through the air as a certified private pilot, dancing, playing golf, building homes, lying on the beaches of Block Island and as the son of a barber, enjoyed giving everyone he knew a haircut. Nothing was impossible to Bob. He even kept his cancer at bay for nearly 20 years by a bit of his own chemistry and holistic means. He was truly a Jack of All Trades and was loved by so many. His beautiful smile and crazy silly sense of humor will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. To honor Bob, donations to the Institute of Science and Technology or to the American Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Parish at Barnabas Church, 44 Washington Avenue, North Haven on Friday, December 29th at 10:00 a.m. to celebrate his life. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.
In 1976 I met Bob at WSTC, he was my chemistry professor. Through the years he became a very close friend and mentor to me. His guidance lead me to go back to school and for 17 years I obtained multiple degrees including a PhD. Thank you Bob for giving me the desire to better myself and move forward in the science world. I will always be grateful.
We’re saddened to hear about the passing of Bob. We share in your sorrow. Bob’s love and guidance will forever be a part of you and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Bob was a leader, a mentor, and a kind and gentle soul. we will forever cherish our times together.
Bob your absence is deeply felt, but your legacy will live on through the lives you have touched.
The Sulik Family