Robert Fitch, 79, of South Lyme, CT, beloved husband of Mariann (Kamerer) Fitch, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, following a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease and a recent acute illness. He spent his final days surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. Born in Hartford, CT, Rob was the son of the late Elton and Evelyn (Bennett) Fitch. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who would drop everything at a moment's notice to lend a hand. His easy-going nature made him a joy to be around; he was always happy to go along with whatever Mariann had planned, maintaining his calm and gentle spirit even as he navigated the challenges of his illness. As an avid sports fan, Rob spent many happy hours cheering for the New York Yankees and UConn basketball. In his younger years, he found peace on the water sailing, a passion that evolved into a love for travel—especially his trips to visit his daughter in New Orleans and his son's family in Georgia. Closer to home, he cherished playing cards with friends, but his greatest joy was his family. He was happiest during summers at Point O' Woods, surrounded by his children, his extended family, and especially his five grandchildren, creating a lifetime of cherished memories.

Besides his wife Mariann, Rob is survived by his children: Steven Thibodeau and wife Rachel of Moodus, CT, Mark Thibodeau and wife Megan of Richmond Hill, GA, and Kristin Fitch of New Orleans, LA. He was the proud grandfather of Mattingly, Lleyton, Myla, Zachary, and Benjamin Thibodeau. He also leaves his brother, Donald Fitch, and sister-in-law Susan Bookman and husband Alan. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to his niece, Tracy Smith, whose support was a blessing to Rob and Mariann over the last several years. He is further survived by his many other nieces, nephew, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Janet Pulver.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Dillon-Baxter Funeral Home, 1276 Berlin Tpke., Wethersfield, CT. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 2:00 to 5:00pm. Burial will be private. A private Celebration of Life will follow on Sunday, January 18, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org). These gifts support the search for a cure and provide critical resources for other families affected by the disease. To share a memory of Rob, please visit www.dillonbaxter.com