Robert H. ‘Bob’ Lussier Sr.
PUTNAM — Robert “Bob” Lussier Sr., 75, of Woodstock Avenue, passed away Oct. 13, 2025, in Putnam. He was the beloved husband of Barbara (Casko) Lussier, who was Bob’s loving and devoted caregiver throughout the health challenges he experienced in recent years. Born Sept. 2, 1950, in Putnam, Bob was the son of the late Henry and Helen (Morin) Lussier. 
Bob excelled at music while a student at Putnam High School and became the leader of the school’s marching band. In 1965, at age 15, he joined a band formed by high school friend Mike Crotty that would grow to become the premier performance group in the tri-state area, The Coachmen. Bob recalled that their first gig was at the American Legion Hall in Grosvenordale. The band rehearsed for the first time that morning at 10 a.m., and played out that night, featuring the popular standards of the ‘40s and ‘50s, and their two newly rehearsed rock and roll songs – “Wipe Out” and “Aquarius.”
Following PHS graduation, Bob’s love of music and the saxophone led him to Berklee College of Music, where he made friendships that endured throughout his life. He continued to perform in the Bob Lussier Mood, and a new version of The Coachmen called Lionshare. After college graduation, he returned to Putnam to work at Belding Manufacturing and eventually at Loos and Company in Pomfret in the quality control department. Work paid the bills to support his family, and Bob continued to pursue music as a part-time career.
Bob was a member of the American Federation of Musicians and was an Executive Board Member of the Southbridge, Mass., chapter of the Musicians Union. He became a licensed booking agent in 1975 and opened the Bob Lussier Associates Entertainment Agency that same year. His fellow saxophonist and best friend Jim Milliard joined him in business in 1983, and “side by each” they operated Lussier-Milliard Associates Music & Entertainment Agency until 1990, representing hundreds of bands, musicians, disc jockeys, and novelty entertainers. Stonehouse Road, The Ambassadors, Taste, Miami, Drive, Reality, Rumors, Jokers 4, The Ron Stone Big Band, and Tiara are just a few of the many bands represented by L & M. They were showcased annually during the Lussier-Milliard “Musical Extravaganza” at the Woodstock Fair.
The Coachmen regrouped in 1979 and continued to travel throughout New England in their big blue bus to play at weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, colleges, corporate conventions, bars, restaurants, and event halls until 1986. If you married in northeast Connecticut in the ‘70s and ‘80s, chances are very likely that The Coachmen performed at your wedding. They were the house band at Thompson Raceway Restaurant and The Stables (now Black Dog Bar and Grille in Putnam) for many years.
Having spent so much time in these social environments, it was natural that Bob would develop a love for the restaurant business. He was a fixture at The Stables Restaurant and eventually became the manager when it was purchased and remodeled into JD Coopers. Bob was a natural host who always went out of his way to make every customer feel special. His longtime association with his dear friend Craig Gates also led to another successful career – this one in car sales, where Bob became a much-sought-after sales associate at Gates GMC Buick Nissan in Windham. Bob excelled in sales and was the recipient of numerous accolades, awards, and five-star reviews. He loved his colleagues, earned many referrals and return customers, and made countless friends during his time there. 
Bob was known and respected for his kindness, warm and welcoming personality, legendary storytelling, sense of humor, hearty laugh, and persistent smile. He was genuinely delighted to greet anyone he met, whether a long-time friend or a soon-to-be one. His love for his family and friends defined him. Right after being with his family, his favorite place was on stage, with his saxophone and bandmates, and pouring his heart, soul, and music out to his many fans.
He leaves three sons of whom he was so proud, Robert H. Lussier Jr. (Crissy) of Hampton; Thomas Sansoucy (Jennifer) of Pomfret; Adam Sansoucy (Suzanne) of Pomfret; granddaughters Sharice Trayner and Ellie Sansoucy; grandsons T.J. Sansoucy and Noah Sansoucy; and great-grandson, Harley Trayner. He also shared special relationships with his nephew Justin Lussier, and nieces Rebecca Lussier, Kimberly Lussier, and Karalee Peach. He adored each and every one. He was predeceased by his brother, Lawrence “Larry” Lussier.
At the end of every gig, Bob would loudly exclaim that the band had just given the audience a “big one!” His loss is indeed a big one that cannot be filled, but we are grateful for his music, the countless opportunities he provided for artists, and the many beautiful memories he has left behind.
“Last Call” services for Bob will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 14 at Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church St., Putnam. There will be a memorial service from 1 to 1:30 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Black Dog Bar and Grille, 146 Park Road in Putnam. Donations: Jolly John’s Keep You Truckin’ Fund. 

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