ROBERT WILLIAM D'ARCY, 70, died suddenly on Feb. 6, 2020, following emergency heart surgery in San Francisco. Son of the late Jeannette (Goudreau) and William D'Arcy, Bob grew up in Stratford and was a state champion swimmer for St. Joseph High School. A member of the varsity swim team at Yale University, he graduated in 1971 with a degree in Russian history. In the mid-'70s, he moved to San Francisco, where for 45 years he worked variously as a legal editor /paralegal / executive administrator for firms including Pillsbury Madison, Wells Fargo, and Charles Schwab. He retired in June 2019.

Bob was fluent in Russian and Spanish, and could get by in Turkish and French. For decades, he would read one book in English followed by one in another language, just to keep his skills sharp. His love of language was surpassed only by his love of adventure travel and his desire to experience other cultures. In recent years, this spirit took him to Tajikistan, Chile, India, South Africa, and Japan. Through his travels, he developed a passion for photography (a pun that would make him groan)which he hoped to continue in earnest during retirement.

An outdoorsman at heart, Bob was an avid camper, hiker, kayaker, and recreational scuba diver (also trained in rescue diving). He was active in his beloved Russian Hill neighborhood community, and known by all for his expansive mind, understated humor, and his quiet kindness and compassion.

Bob is survived by his sister, Barbara Kiernan (Jeff) of Milford; six nephews: Sean Kiernan of Black Rock, Brendan Kiernan (Mila Ercole) of White Plains, Tim Kiernan (Kathleen) of Cheshire, Randy Kiernan (Moira) of Black Rock, Christopher Kiernan of Fairfield, Kevyn D'Arcy of Virginia; a niece, Keara D'Arcy Isaacs (Terrence) of Queens, and a beloved aunt, Carolyn D'Arcy, of New Hampshire. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Kathy, and his loving companion, Paula Brawley.

Donations in Bob's memory may be made to Save the Children, through which, for decades, he sponsored needy children in other lands. A memorial service will be held at a future date through the Dennis & D'Arcy - Abriola & Kelemen funeral home of Stratford. Fr online condolences please visit www.dennisanddarcy.com