Obituary of Elizabeth Keane Rossbaum

Elizabeth (Keane) Rossbaum, 96, of Rocky Hill, beloved wife of the late Robert P. Rossbaum, M.D., passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025.  Born on August 8, 1929 to Paul and Dorothy Keane in Bridgeport, Betty, as she was known by her friends and family, was a long-term resident of Glastonbury.   

Elizabeth graduated in 1951 from College of New Rochelle, New Rochelle, New York with a bachelor of science degree and worked for many years as an elementary school teacher in several different states while her husband, Bob, was in the United States Navy. Betty loved all children and enjoyed being a teacher, but retired from teaching when her first child was born. When she wasn’t taking care of her children and driving them to their various lessons and sporting events, Betty enjoyed volunteering in the local public school system, playing Bridge, visiting with her friends, reading, and travel. But Betty especially loved to entertain family and friends in her home in Glastonbury and at the cottage on the lake. The Fourth of July celebration at the lake every year was particularly special.

Betty cared deeply about her friends and family and always put the needs of others above her own. If you needed something, she was there. Betty was remarkably kind and generous to those she knew and to those who were strangers. She was smart, and funny, and her smile, with her big dimples, would light up the entire room.

Elizabeth is survived by her loving daughter, Kathleen Ross of Glastonbury, and her son, Robert Ross and his wife Maggie of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, Paul Vella, Jr., Kate Vella, Derek Ross, Shannon Ross, Kyle Ross, Megan Ross and Jack Ross, as well as her nephew and several nieces. Over the past several years, Betty was attended to by her wonderful caregivers who considered Betty part of their families and who Betty loved dearly. The family is grateful for all their love and support.

Betty was predeceased by her husband Bob, who was the love of her life. She also was predeceased by her sister, Dottie, who was her very best friend. 

A burial of Elizabeth’s and her husband Robert’s ashes will be held on Thursday, October 9 at 11 am in Holy Cross Cemetery, Glastonbury.