Robert Michael Colavecchio

Robert Michael Colavecchio, 58, of Cromwell, CT - Beloved husband. Devoted father. Treasured son, uncle, and brother, unexpectedly left this world on August 1, 2023. Born in Hartford, CT, he graduated from South Catholic High School (‘82), then Johnson and Wales (‘84), to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a chef.  Soon dubbed as “the Rock and Roll chef”, Rob was a wizard in the kitchen. During his 39 year culinary career, his ‘magic hands’ crafted beautiful meals for celebrities including Richie Sambora, Cher, and his “Mary Tyler Moore show” crush, Valerie Harper. Yet his most important creations were for his family, where he poured every ounce of love, skill, and purpose. He was a savant behind the stovetop; a legendary musician (at least behind the shower curtain and steering wheel); Stew Leonard’s Superstar of the Month; admired Hot Tomatoes and Restaurant Bricco chef. Most importantly, a mighty man of faith, who allowed his love and trust in God to shine into every aspect of his life.  Those who knew him appreciated his not-so hidden gift for music. From high school choir, to serenading his peers behind the saute station, to leading worship at church. So talented he was even supposed to play Danny Zucko in the musical Grease (inside joke-- if you don’t know, ask us-- It’s SO ROB)! He remained committed to the little things that were important to him; ironing his chef pants weekly to remain ‘chef-ready’, and wearing driving gloves to simulate his desire to race Formula 1. His laugh radiated in a loud theater, and his personality was one-in-a-million. He made an impact on every person that he knew.  Rob was predeceased by his father Philip, and leaves behind his adored mother Lillian; brother Steven and sister in-law Mickey; sister Nancy and nephew Cole; as well as mother in-law Dolores, brother in-law Bryan, sister in-law Jody, and nephew Travis.  He will be forever missed by his beloved wife of almost 27 years Pam, and their cherished children Alex and Maxwell. Secondary only to God, they were all that he lived for, and will passionately carry on his legacy of love, laughter and purpose.  Calling hours will be Monday, August 14th, 4-7pm at Cromwell Funeral Home, 506 Main Street Cromwell. A Celebration of Life will be organized in the coming months.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Rob’s honor can be made to Streetfire Ministries Inc. Kindly make checks payable to Streetfire Ministries Inc., mailed to, 34-3 Shunpike Rd. #213 Cromwell, CT 06416 in c/o Wallace Collins.

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