Robert Emile Nadeau, 86, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, in Naples, FL, December 28, 2011. He was born in Berlin, NH on January 31, 1925, to Emile and Maude (nee Green). He graduated high school from Greenfield, MA and joined the Navy in 1942. He was trained as a Fleet Marine Corpsman, and was assigned to an LST headed for Europe. He was with the first wave, “H Hour”, to land troops and tanks on Utah Beach, Normandy, France. After the invasion, he was transferred to the Pacific and had independent duty on an invasion tanker with the responsibility for the health of 150 crewmen. After Navy service, he attended the University of Massachusetts and graduated Boston University in 1950.
Bob Nadeau married his surviving spouse, Mary Lou Felter in 1950 and they moved to Bennington, VT where he started a small furniture company reproducing Shaker Furniture under a Royalty from the Shakers (only licensed craftsman in America). While residing in Old Bennington, VT, he was also the Chief of Police. Mr. Nadeau and family, moved to Naples, FL in 1966, where he bought Nassau Pools and expanded the business by becoming the first pool construction company in Collier County. His next business venture was a founding partner of Winger-Nadeau Realty, followed by developing numerous condominiums in Collier County.
Bob was a member of the Naples Sailing and Yacht Club and become Commodore in 1970. He was also the President of the International Order of the Blue Gavel in 1974. Bas was founding member of Royal Poinciana Golf Club. He was also a member of Naples Rotary Club and The International Men’s Club of America; President 2004-2006.
Mr. Nadeau was named a “Chevelier” of the Legion of Honor. The award was presented by President of France, Nicolas Sarkozy, on May 9, 2007, testifying to the President of the French Republic’s high esteem for merits and accomplishments. In particular, it is a sign of France’s true and unforgettable gratitude and appreciation for personal, precious contribution of the United States’ decisive role in liberation of France during World War II.
Bob enjoyed wood and precious stone carving; sailing; golfing; classical music; and reading. He was most passionate about traveling world-wide, with his beloved wife, enjoying cruising, historical sites, museums, and classical music concerts.
Mr. Nadeau is survived by his wife of 61 years, Mary Lou; and sons Robert D. and Dwight H. (Cathy); “daughter” Judi; and grandchildren Rob and Bailey.
A Celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2012 at 2 PM in the sanctuary of Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbour Drive, Naples, FL.
The family requests, in lieu of flowers, that memorial gifts be made in the name of Robert Nadeau, to Habitat for Humanity, Naples, FL or Project Mercy, 7011 Ardmore Ave,, Fort Wayne, IN 46809.
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