Groton - Robert Miller Chester Sr., 80, of Groton, passed away at Yale New Haven Hospital after a brief illness on Monday, Oct. 24, 2016, surrounded by his loving family.He was born on July 15, 1936, in New London, the son of Archibald J.A. Chester Sr. and Emilie S. (Miller) Chester.Bob was educated in Groton schools, and served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1960 with an honorable discharge. He began work at General Dynamics Electric Boat in 1961, working his way up from outside electrician to an electrical designer. During this time, Bob was proud to be one of a chosen few to work on the Navy's first small, deep, underwater research submarine. He left EB to go work for his brother at Reactor Controls in Waterford until they closed. He then went to work for McLaughlin Research for a short time, but left to return to EB, where he retired in 2005 after 30+ years.Bob was a loyal Red Sox fan and played baseball locally for many years. He coached his son's Little League and his daughters' Miss Softball teams. He was also involved in the Boy Scouts, with his son, Troop 13 of Groton. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed tending his gardens.Bob leaves his longtime companion of nearly 20 years, Barbara Bennett of Groton.He was a dedicated father and there wasn't anything he wouldn't do for his children. He leaves a son, Robert M. Chester Jr., of Gales Ferry; and three daughters, Judith O'Connor (Mike) of Bozrah; Sandra Chester and Laura Chester-Helme (Kenny), both of Groton. Bob leaves two sisters and a sister-in-law, Kay Chester and Susan Chester and Nancy Chester, all of Groton. Bob loved and enjoyed his six granddaughters, Jessica and Emily O'Connor, Gabrielle, Camryn and Courtney Chester, and Natalie Helme. He leaves two nephews, a niece, two great-nieces, and one great-great niece. He also leaves his ex-wife, Judith Chester.He was pre-deceased by his brother, Archibald J.A. Chester Jr.; and sister, Louise Aguiar.A memorial service for family and friends will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at Byles-Groton Memorial home, 310 Thames Street, Groton on Friday, Nov. 4, 2016. Immediately following the service, a celebration of his life will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Groton Elks Club, 700 Shennecossett Road, Groton.Please visit www.byles.com for directions, to sign his guest book or to share a memory with his family.