My name is Colleen, and I am raising funds in memory of my beloved son, Robert David Connolly Junior. Robert was tragically taken from us on July 5, 2025, in Connecticut. He was a wonderful son, a devoted father, and a friend to so many. Robert had a heart of gold—he would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. He loved spending time with his family, especially his little five-year-old son, Raedan. Whether he was riding motorcycles and four wheelers, hiking, swimming, or enjoying the beach, Robert’s joy for life was contagious. He leaves behind four brothers, a sister, many nephews, nieces, cousins, and countless friends who loved him dearly.

Because Robert was cremated and his ashes were split among family, there is no single place for his loved ones—especially Raedan—to visit and remember him. This has been especially hard for his young son, who still believes his daddy is just sleeping and will come back one day. Our family wants to create a special place for Raedan and all of us to honor Robert’s memory and feel close to him.

We are hoping to raise funds to purchase a beautiful granite bench for the New Preston CT Cemetery, where Robert’s life was tragically cut short. The bench will be customized with angel wings, a message from Robert to Raedan saying “Daddy loves you,” a small engraved motorcycle, and Robert’s face with his birth and death dates. We hope this memorial will help Raedan understand that his daddy is now his angel, watching over him from heaven, and give our family a peaceful place to visit and remember Robert.

I am reaching out to friends, family, and the community for support. Any donation, big or small, will help us create a place where Raedan can visit his daddy and where our family can gather to remember Robert. Your kindness and generosity mean so much to us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us honor Robert’s memory.