Robert “Bob” Eugene Bitgood, Sr., 88, of Cromwell, passed away on May 1, 2026, at Apple Rehab of Cromwell.  Born in Middletown, he was the son of the late Dr. George and Muriel (Cockburn) Bitgood.

     Growing up, Bob would help his father “Doc Bitgood” and mother “Tiny” at their veterinary clinic in Middletown.  He was employed at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Manufacturing for thirty- seven years, retiring in 1994.  He loved the Red Sox, New England Patriots and taking his grandchildren for rides in his convertible to the shore and walking trails.

     Bob is survived by two sons Rodney Bitgood and his wife Jessica of Higganum and Robert E. Bitgood, Jr. and his wife Lori of Essex; two grandchildren Crystal Carlson and Rodney Bitgood, Jr., three great grandchildren Ella, David and Tyler and two sisters Annette “Dewey” Champion of California and Beverly “Jeannie” Williams and her husband Dave of Salem, CT.

     Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Beverly Ann (Synder) Taylor Bitgood, his daughter Helen A. Bitgood and two brothers, George Bitgood, Jr. and Stephen Bitgood.

     A graveside service will be held on Thursday May 7th at 10:00 am in Higganum Burr Cemetery, 793 Killingworth Road, Higganum.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.  To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.