Robert J. “Big Bird” Swan, age 84, entered eternal rest on November 2, 2026, at Griffin Hospital in Derby. He was the beloved husband of the late Evelyn (Emmerich) Swan.
Born in Derby on December 3, 1941, Robert was the son of the late Edward Swan and Hilda (Smith) Waldron. He grew up in Ansonia, where he graduated from Pine High School, before settling in West Haven, where he made his home for more than 50 years.
Robert worked as a machinist for many years at the former Geometric Tool in New Haven and later at RFS Cablewaves in North Haven until his retirement. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps.
An avid bowler, Robert, participated in numerous bowling leagues throughout New Haven County, serving as secretary for several. He also enjoyed playing and coaching both adult and youth softball in West Haven. Away from the ballfields and bowling lanes, Robert enjoyed dancing, listening to oldies’ music, and watching Western movies.
Robert leaves behind to cherish his memory, his daughter, Deborah A. Papin (Dave) of West Haven; his son, Warren Desrosier of West Palm Beach, Florida; his brothers, Jeffrey Waldron of Woodbridge, Connecticut, and Herb Swan of Vancouver, Washington; his grandchildren, Caitlin Papin, Sabrina Papin, Gabriela Campos, Laylah Campos, Victoria Dean, and Jayda Desrosiers; and his great-grandson, Leo Rocky Joyner, and great-granddaughters, Dixie and Wennilie. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his beloved wife, Evelyn, Robert was predeceased by his daughter, Tina Marie Doyle-Campos, and 23 of his 27 siblings.
Relatives and friends are invited to greet the family and pay their respects on Monday, November 9, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of SPINELLI-RICCIUTI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street, Ansonia. His burial will be private. To sign Robert’s guestbook or share a memory, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.