Robert Edward Gaudette, age 76, of Milford, returned to the loving arms of the Lord, in Milford Hospital on Saturday, October 25, 2014. He was born on January 22, 1938 in Bridgeport to the late Wilfred and Dorothy Tompkins Gaudette. A long time Walnut Beach resident, he has owned and operated Howard’s Variety for over 24 years. He was the former owner of Issie’s News Room, Center News, Bobby G’s package store and Bob’s Drywall Co. An active member of the community, he was a Milford Softball player, ASA umpire, a basketball player and a referee for many years. He loved spending time with his family and being a parishioner of St. Gabriel’s Church. Bobby is survived by his devoted wife, of 54 years, Dorothy DuCharme Gaudette, brother Richard Gaudette and his wife Yolanda of Milford, niece Suzanne Gaudette Brown, great niece Isabella Brown and many dedicated nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his brother Raymond Gaudette and sister Rhea Gaudette. Calling hours are Wednesday, October 29, 2014 from 4 to 8 pm at the Smith & Sefcik Funeral Home, 135 Broad St., Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 30th in St. Gabriel’s Church, 26 Broadway, Milford at 10:30 am. Interment will follow in Mountain Grove Cemetery in Bridgeport.