Robert “Bob” Culligan, 69, of East Haven passed away peacefully on Jan. 23 at Connecticut Hospice in Branford. He was born March 30, 1948, in New Haven to George and Rose (DeFonzo) Culligan.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Elsie (Treloar) Culligan; daughter Michele Montesanto (Michael) of East Haven; and two grandchildren, Cpl. Michael Montesanto (USMC) and Haley Montesanto. Robert is also survived by his sister Debbie Pereira (John) of New York; and brother George Culligan of Florida. Robert is preceded in death by his parents; son Robert Culligan, Jr., (1981); and a sister, Patricia Manacchio.

Bob enjoyed watching Michael and Haley at their sporting events, never missing a game until his illness. He was so proud when Michael became a US Marine. He also loved drinking coffee and hanging out with his friends every day at their favorite spot. Bob also loved snowmobiling in Vermont, watching the Patriots and Bruins, and spending time on his boat and at the casino. He cherished the times when his sister Debbie would visit.

We would like to thank our family and friends for all of their love and support during this difficult time. In addition, we would like to thank all who cared for him, including the staff at Smilow Cancer Center and Hospice, and the caregivers he had at home.

The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Jan. 26 at the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home (Clancy Funeral Home), 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. The funeral procession will leave Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home on Jan. 27 at 9:45 a.m. for a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. in St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Taylor Avenue, East Haven, with Committal to follow at All Saints Cemetery in North Haven. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405, in memory of Robert Culligan.