Robert Jon Shapiro ("Blues Bob") passed away peacefully at CT Hospice in Branford at the age of 81.  He is survived by his sister, Deborah (Shapiro) Rutty and brother-in-law, Norman Rutty, of Centerbrook CT, his nephew, David Peelstrom of New Hampshire, and cousin, Janet (Fine) Tucker of Philadelphia.

He was born in Bridgeport CT and later resided in Fairfield. He earned a BA in Social Work at UConn and subsequently worked as a Social Worker for the city of Bridgeport for thirty years, 1966-1996. He was dedicated to his clients, who respected and trusted him. He was a sympathetic listener and was generous, on occasion dipping into his own wallet to help a welfare mother make it through the weekend.

Bob was known by all who knew him as a kind gentle soul who possessed a dry sense of humor.

Bob loved great books and great music. He was a voracious reader, but his true passion in life was the blues. "Blues Bob" became a beloved and respected programmer at WPKN-FM in Bridgeport where he aired his Thursday "Blues in the Evening" show for almost thirty years. He shared with his listeners his profound knowledge and love of all genres of blues and roots music, whether Chicago or Delta blues or early rock and roll.

Those who kindly wish to offer a donation in his name, may do so by sending it to:

WPKN-FM, 277 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport CT 06473

Or:  Online at WPKN.org (Please mention "Blues Bob" in the comment line)