Ex-First Selectman Bond Remembered As Passionate About Town

Former First Selectman Dick Bond cared deeply about the town and oversaw many improvements that residents still enjoy, First Selectman Jeb Walker said today.

Bond died this morning.

The World War II Navy veteran "seldom patted himself on the back," but was a driving force behind construction of the Outback Teen Center, school renovations, downtown sidewalk improvements, the acquisition of the lumber yard and the town's continuing paving program, said Walker.

Bond oversaw a transition of New Canaan from a small town to a 20th century business operation with increasing needs and demands for services, said Walker.

He noted that Bond stepped in to lead the town after the death of then-First Selectman Louis Moreno in 1996. Bond then served full terms from 1997 to 2003.

"He was a great friend and a great mentor," said Walker, who noted that Bond was among a group that encouraged Walker to run for first selectman.

After taking office, Walker said he received "more wisdom from Dick than anyone else."

Bond's service to the town included stints on the board of finance and the Republican Town Committee.

A memorial service is planned for Jan. 16 at 3 p.m. at the First Church of Christ Scientist where Bond was a member.