Robert N. Ruey

Robert N. Ruey Obituary
June 12, 1932 – March 27, 2026

Robert N. Ruey, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, athlete, veteran, businessman, and beloved friend, passed away peacefully on March 27.  He leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, laughter, and unwavering dedication to family and friends.

Known as Bob or Butch to his friends and Poppi to his grandchildren, he was born in New York City and moved to Waterbury, Connecticut at three months old. He was the son of Gustave Ruey and Lillian Terenzi and was also deeply influenced by his stepfather, Fred Terenzi. From an early age, Robert showed the intelligence, wit, and mischievous charm that would become his hallmark throughout life.

He graduated from Wilby High School in 1949, where he proudly served as captain of the baseball team—an early reflection of his natural leadership, athleticism, and ability to bring people together.

After high school, Robert worked at American Brass and later at American Metal Hose before serving in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1955 aboard the SS Stephen Potter. His time in the Navy was meaningful to him—not only for the service it represented, but for the lifelong friendships he formed and the opportunity to see the world beyond his hometown, experiences that he would always talk about fondly.

On September 17, 1955, Robert married the love of his life, Lillian (Lee) Correia. Together they built a beautiful life and shared 70 years of marriage until her passing in 2025. Their relationship was a true partnership, filled with devotion, resilience, and deep love.

In 1957, Robert became a longtime resident of Prospect, Connecticut. Over the years, he owned several local establishments, including Butch’s Restaurant, and later Park East, from 1976 to 1989. Whether greeting customers or sharing a laugh, Robert made everyone feel welcome—his quick wit, playful nature, genuine warmth and generosity left lasting impressions on all who knew him.

Outside of work, Robert cherished time spent with friends and family. He especially enjoyed sports.  As a lifetime member of the Waterbury YMCA, an avid handball and racquetball player, and member of  the Town Plot Men’s Softball League,  his competitive spirit and sense of humor made him a favorite teammate and friend.

In 1989, Robert retired to Jupiter, Florida, where he resided part time until 2000, when he returned full time to Prospect.  

Robert was blessed with a loving family. He is survived by his daughter, Doreen Dressel, his granddaughters, Annie Hudson (Mike Hudson), and Abigail Lee Dressel (Joao Pignatelli); and his cherished great-grandchildren, William, Charlie, and Caroline Hudson; and Joao and Stella Pignatelli.

He shared a special bond with Joe, Rosemary, Rosina, and Gianna Gurga, who became a treasured second family and brought him and his wife Lee great joy and companionship over the years.

Robert will be remembered for his love of family, generosity, and being the life of the party! His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, and in the memories his family and friends will carry forward.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 from 9am to 10am at Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Rd., Prospect followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Anthony’s Church, 4 Union City Rd., Prospect. Burial with military honors will immediately follow at All Saints Cemetery, Waterbury.  Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements and to care of the Ruey family during this difficult time of grief.  For information, directions and to share your online condolences, please visit prospectmemorial.com

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