It was at the end of 2005 that Bob Briant stepped down as the CEO of the UTCA of NJ. However, he continued as a consultant to the association and his knowledge, experience and continued devotion to the organization provided invaluable guidance to his successor as CEO, Bob, Jr. as well as to the rest of the staff and Board of Directors. During the past seven years, Bob not only continued to produce the association magazine, but he also assisted with the annual convention, executive seminar, membership development, and several other duties. Most importantly, he was always a source of wise counseling and good advice on all matters that affected the UTCA and its member firms.
events such as sporting competitions, scholastic achievement banquets and music concerts. It was indeed a proud day for “Poppa Bob” (as he was known to the grandchildren) when his oldest grandson Colin was accepted to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Upon the passing of this unique and respected individual, the UTCA Board of Directors organized a “21 loader salute” on the day of Bob’s funeral. Following the service, the funeral procession drove past 21 heavy equipment loaders on Route 34 which had been set up earlier in the day. Each loader had its bucket held up majestically as a tribute to Bob and an American Flag was raised to drape the equipment. Bob Briant, Sr. would have been very proud. He loved this industry, he loved his country, he was devoted to his family and was loyal to his many friends. Bob’s loss will be felt for many, many years to come on both a personal and professional level. This industry has lost one on its all-time leaders, and Bob’s memory will be an inspiration for years to come.
Bob presents a plaque to Congressman Bob Gibbs on behalf of the Clean Water Construction Coalition.
After living for many years in Manasquan, NJ, Bob and Carole relocated to Point Pleasant and then to Bay Head before returning to a newly constructed townhouse in Point Pleasant. Bob had a passion for wine collecting and good books and was especially fond of films about World War I and World War II. His favorite film was the classic “They Were Expendable” starring John Wayne. Bob was also a lover of Broadway theatre. However, his greatest love was reserved for his family, especially his wife Carole, children Bobby, Michael and Joanne and their spouses Debbie, Donna and Sam. Bob held a very special place in his heart for his six grandchildren Colin, Hannah, Thomas, Katherine, Michael and Joseph. He was routinely present at his grandchildren’s special
Pictured with Governor Christine Todd Whitman are Joe DeSanctis, Bob, Sr., Fletch Creamer, Jr., Bob, Jr., Jerry Liguori and Ed Nyland. Utility and Transportation Contractor, JUNE 2013
Bob is pictured with Colonel Oliver North at UTCA’s 25th Anniversary Convention in 1990.
The “21 loader salute” to Bob Briant, Sr. 7