Augustine "Bob" Byrnes

Augustine J. Byrnes passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. He left behind a legacy of devotion, service, and deep love for those around him. Lovingly known as “Bob” to friends and “Poppy” to his family, born on June 16, 1937, he was the son of the late Austin and Nora Doorty Byrnes. Bob carried his strong values of family, faith, and heritage throughout his life.

Bob, a native of Stamford, Connecticut, graduated from Stamford High School in 1956 and soon after started working for Condé Nast Publications. Shortly after that, he met the love of his life, Ruth Weber Byrnes, through mutual friends, and they were married on July 9, 1960. Together, they built a life devoted to family, raising their three children in Darien, Connecticut, and later in life residing in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Their enduring love and partnership live on through the family they created and the legacy they leave behind, especially in the joy they found in their six beloved grandchildren.

A proud man of Irish heritage, Bob embraced his culture with joy and pride; he could often be found singing and dancing to an Irish tune. He was a devoted fan of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer on his teams. He also found great happiness in simple pleasures—especially enjoying a hot, hearty meal, a sweet treat, and a good cup of coffee surrounded by loved ones.

Bob cherished time spent in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where he vacationed with his family and enjoyed playing golf. His love extended to the many pets he cared for over the years, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

A man dedicated to service, Bob was a 54-year member of the Norton Heights Fire Department. He also served his community through his work with the Darien Police Department and Darien Public Schools. His deep faith guided much of his life, including his role as a sexton at St. Thomas More Church in Darien. Bob was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus, serving as a Past Grand Knight of the Fr. McGuane Council and a 4th Degree member of the Fr. Miller Council.

Above all, Bob was a devoted family man—a provider, a steady presence, and a source of unconditional love. He is survived by his sister, Catherine Byrnes Lynam; his daughter, Maureen Byrnes Szanto; his sons, Daniel Byrnes and Timothy Byrnes (Angela); and his cherished grandchildren: Danielle Szanto, Ashleen Szanto (Jackie), Andrew Szanto, Austin, Nicholas, and Nora Byrnes. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. Bob was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruth Weber Byrnes, and his son-in-law, Andrew Robert Szanto.

Bob’s life was one of quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and deep love. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 10:30 am at St. Thomas More Church in Darien, Connecticut. Interment will follow at St. John Cemetery, Darien, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to Tunnel to Towers. The Polke Family would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family as Bob was a dedicated assistant of Frank Polke & Son Funeral Home for over 35 years.

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