Robert Elihu Naviasky, 61, of Waterford, CT, passed away on October 28, 2023, with his wife Sharon Purcell by his side. Bobby was born in Bloomfield, CT to the late Arthur and Julia Galinsky Naviasky, and lovingly raised by his father and adopted mother, the late Gladys Jacobson Naviasky, after Julia passed away. He is survived by his brother, Laurence Naviasky; sister-in-law, Barbara Pats; nephews, Jacob, Gabriel, and Ethan, along with many extended family and friends far and wide.
Bob embraced his role as step-parent to William and Nolan Burhans, with a perfect combination of love, support, wisdom, and fun with a grace that was remarkable, and truly a testament to his character.
Bob graduated from UCONN with a BA in 1984. After an unexpected stint as a summer Hebrew school teacher, he discovered his path, and went on to St. Joseph's College for his Master's in Education in 1992. After beginning his career in teaching, Bob really found his passion in the Alternative Education Program at Middletown High School, where he ran and taught the program for most of his time as an educator until retiring in 2022. His ability to connect with the students and help them achieve what most thought impossible was a gift to so many. Naviasky, or 'Mr. Nav' to his students, was a teacher, mentor, surrogate parent, counselor, snack provider and safe place both during and after their high school years. He was always so pleased and honored when a former student took time to contact him after they graduated. He loved and respected the determination they showed to choose lives they could be proud of. In 2005, he was awarded the Education Award in appreciation of selfless dedication to improving the lives of others from the Middlesex County NAACP, a recognition Bob was immensely proud of, and in 2022, the City of Middletown declared June 27th "Bob Naviasky Day" in honor of his retirement.
Bob's diagnosis took a toll on his ability to continue the activities he loved; kayaking, biking, riding, running, swimming, weightlifting. He became content watching sports, old movies and vintage TV, talking on the phone to his many friends, and never missed his daily very early morning walk with his dog, Zennie. It did not compromise his love of cake, cookies and ice cream.
Bob was a gentle soul in a solid body, a bit intimidating at first but with a genuinely kind heart that showed in his beautiful eyes when he smiled. To be able to share his life was an unforgettable privilege. May we all aspire to incorporate his good work into our lives.
A scholarship has been created in Bob's name, to be awarded to an ALTED Middletown H.S. student looking to continue their education. Further information on how to contribute will become available, or a donation to an animal rescue or dog sanctuary in Bob's name would also be appreciated.
Friends are invited to join Sharon and family for a Celebration of Bob's Life on Friday, November 17th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Langley's Restaurant at Great Neck County Club, Lamphere Road, Waterford, CT 06385. Bring your best stories to share and feel free to show your Giants' blue. BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Ave, Hamden in care of arrangements.