Robert Riss Obituary

Robert John Riss, affectionately known as "Bob," 78, of Meriden, passed away peacefully due to a short illness on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at the Hospital of Central CT- New Britain General Campus. He was the beloved husband of 47 years to Mariette (Parenteau) Riss. Bob was born on September 29, 1946 in Meriden, CT son of Mary (Morin) Riss, 105 of Meriden, and the late Nicholas G. Riss. Following graduation from Platt High School in Meriden, Bob answered the call of duty and enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served with honor and distinction. His passion for service stayed with him throughout his life, and he often wore his Navy hat with pride, a symbol of his commitment to his country and comrades. With a passion for automobiles that spanned decades, Bob dedicated many years to the auto parts business, where his expertise shone brightly. In the 1980s, he owned and operated Total Auto Parts in Meriden, a venture that allowed him to forge lasting connections with both customers and colleagues. Bob had a remarkable career that included durations at B+B Auto of Berlin and SAUB distribution until its closure, and then Quality Auto in Middletown under the guidance of John Seagrave. He retired from Advanced Auto of Middletown in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication that will resonate in the hearts of many. Bob was truly a jack of all trades, known for his remarkable ability to build, fix, and tinker with just about anything. His man cave was a sanctuary where he explored his endless curiosity, always immersed in projects and willing to help others with theirs. Bob was a man of few words, but his presence spoke volumes. He found joy in the simple moments of life, and his kind heart was always evident in his actions. Though he kept to himself, those who spent time with him understood the depth of his character and the warmth he extended to family and friends. In addition to his wife, Mariette Riss and his mother, Mary Riss, Bob is survived by his children, Mark Riss, of FL, and Shelley (Riss) Conant, of Meriden, his step-son, Keith Bouchard, of Naugatuck, his grandchildren, Paetyn Conant, of Farmington, Katelin (Bouchard) Jaramillo and her husband, Carlos, of Bristol, Brittany Bouchard, of Plainville, and Blaire Bouchard, of Plainville, his 4 great-grandchildren, his sister, Joyce Heald, of VT, his mother-in-law, Simone Parenteau, and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was predeceased by his father, Nicholas G. Riss, his brother, Nicholas W. Riss and his brother's wife, Charlotte Riss, and his brother-in-law, John Heald. Family and friends are welcome to gather on Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. A prayer service followed by full military honors will be held at 11:30 AM at the funeral home. Honoring Bob's wishes, there will be no burial. Donations in memory of Bob may be made to a charity of the donor's choice that benefits our veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country. To read the full obituary or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit Bob's tribute page at www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert "Bob" John Riss, please visit our floral store.