Branford Police Department today shares today its sorrow at news of the passing of Branford Police Commissioner Robert Gott.

Commissioner Gott's passing was noted by Branford Police Chief Kevin Halloran.

"Robert served as a commissioner for many years and was the Chair of our Traffic Committee. We send our heartfelt condolences to the Gott Family. Robert will be missed by all," stated Halloran, in a post shared at 2:30 p.m. today on Branford Police Department's Facebook page.

As a member of the Branford Police Commission, Commissioner Gott served as one of six members of the　bi-partisan civilian oversight board. The commission works closely with the police department to assist Branford police in　reducing crime and to enhance public service efforts to　maintain a safe environment for the town's citizens.

His obituary, posted by North Haven Funeral Home (www.northhavenfuneral.com) , follows:

Robert D. Gott, 70, of Branford passed away on February 27, 2016 at home with his family by his side after a two year battle with cancer.

He was born January 29, 1946 in Troy, New York to the late Lester and Alice Bitinas Gott.　 He leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Judy Merkel Gott. Rob also leaves behind a son, Christian Gott of North Branford and a daughter, Kelly (Eric) Golia of North Branford.　 Five grandchildren: Becki, Meghan and Lindsay Golia and Onna and Samuel Gott.　 Also his timid pal, his cat, Joey.　 Rob was a graduate of the Salisbury School and Syracuse University and the owner of Branford Business Forms for 35 years.　 A believer in community service, he was chairman of the Republican Town Committee for 10 years, a Justice of Peace for 25 years, and at the time of his passing, a Police Commissioner for the past 12 years.　 He also was the Managing Partner for the Gott Family Partnership which is dedicated to the ongoing success and longevity of the property owned by the Partnership on Gotts Island, Maine.　 Rob considered Gotts Island almost heaven on earth after vacationing almost 40 years there.　 Rob was an enthusiastic golfer having played in fifteen states and five countries.　 He also was an avid follower of Syracuse University athletics, UConn athletics, the Boston Red Sox, and NY Giants football.　 Special thanks to the staff at the Smilow Cancer Hospital and the Connecticut Hospice for their compassionate care.　 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the local chapter of the ASPCA or to Smilow/Hospice.