Joseph A. Conboy, 85, formerly of Sandy Hook, died peacefully May 4, at Paradigm Healthcare Center in Waterbury, with his loving wife of 65 years, Eleanor (Kretkiewicz) Conboy, by his side. He was born in Bridgeport, May 12, 1927, son of Elsie (Fox) and Joseph B. Conboy.

Mr Conboy was raised in New Haven and had lived in Sandy Hook for most of his life before moving to Watertown.

He attended the University of New Haven and served as a pharmacist’s mate in the US Navy during World War II. Following in his father’s footsteps, he worked for the railroad for 40 years. He was the drawbridge operator in Westport for many years.

Mr Conboy was an athletic and competitive person. In high school, he was captain of the soccer team and the chess club. He enjoyed playing in horseshoe leagues and bowling. He was the leader of Boy Scout Troop #70 in Newtown for many years. He was an avid reader and fisherman; he loved to fish the lakes and streams for trout. He was a former communicant of St Rose of Lima Church in Newtown.

He was full spirited and loved to have a good time. He and his wife enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Besides his wife he leaves three sons, Timothy Conboy, and his wife Pamela, of Woodbury, Danny Conboy, and his wife Betty, of Delhi, N.Y., and Philip Conboy of Southbury; a daughter, Laurie Wagner of Redding; eight grandchildren, Candice, Benjamin, Diana, Bonnie, Sarah, Joseph, Rachael, and Kathryn; and four great-grandchildren.

Calling hours are Saturday, May 11, from 1 to 3 pm, at Hickcox Funeral Home, 195 Main Street, Watertown. A memorial service will take place at 3 pm.

To leave an online condolence visit www.hickcoxfuneralhome.com.