James R. (Bob) Drauss, 86, of Wallingford, beloved husband for 62 years of the late Nedrea L. (Nadile) Drauss, passed away unexpectedly, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at his home.

Bob was born in Meriden, August 17, 1934, a son of the late James J. Drauss and Emma M. Cibula.  He attended local elementary school and Meriden High School where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Nedrea.  A proud veteran of the United States Army, he faithfully and honorably served his country.  Bob was employed for many years at S.N.E.T., as a manager.  He was also involved in the daily operation of DeSandre's Livery Service in Meriden for over 50 years.  His genuine, caring and professional nature allowed him to be of service to many local funeral homes, where he made many long-lasting friendships.  He enjoyed cruising to various destinations with his wife Nedrea, and playing tennis which, they learned while living in Florida.  Bob loved playing pool at Yale Billiards, and was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.  He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and a 48-year member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

He is survived by his loving family, a son James (Jamie) R. Drauss Jr. and his wife Maria of Clinton; a daughter Cheryl Church and grandchildren Ryan and Kristina Church of Wallingford; brothers Peter DeSandre and wife Rose of Meriden; Louis (Happy) DeSandre and wife Lora of Florida; brothers-in-law James F. Nadile Jr. and wife Jackie; Robert Nadile and wife Penney all of Meriden; numerous nieces, nephews; cousins and most of all his lovable little MOLLY.  He was predeceased by his step-father Louis J. DeSandre.

Bob's family will receive relatives and friends for a walk-through visitation in the STEMPIEN FUNERAL HOME, 450 Broad St., Meriden, Saturday, March 6, 2021, from 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. (Meeting Directly) at Our Lady Queen of Angels Parish, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Meriden.  Entombment with military honors will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery Mausoleum.   Please attend in accordance with CDC guidelines, wear face coverings and practice social distancing.  Capacity limitations will be required throughout all services.  In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Bob may be sent to Our Lady Queen of Angels Parish, 109 Goodwill Ave., Meriden, Ct. 06451, or North Farms Volunteer Fire Dept., 864 North Farms Rd., Wallingford, Ct. 06492.  Services for Bob will also be livestreamed with information to follow on this memorial page. For online expressions of sympathy, directions or to livestream funeral services visit: stempienfuneralhome.com. THE LINK TO LIVESTREAM THE MASS IS LOCATED BELOW IN THE CHURCH SECTION. THE LINK TO LIVESTREAM THE CEMETERY IS ALSO BELOW IN THE CEMETERY SECTION. PLEASE KEEP YOUR DEVICE ON MUTE DURING SERVICES.