My Friend Robert: Alex Fischetti Pays Tribute to Robert Vaughn

Editor's note: He may be a legendary actor and The Man from U.N.C.L.E , but to Ridgefielder Alex Fischetti, he's a beloved friend. Here, Alex pays tribute to Mr. Robert Vaughn who died today at the age of 83. 

My friend Robert

Mr. Robert Vaughn a longtime resident of Ridgefield and one of the finest actors Hollywood has ever seen has died at the age of 83 after a short battle with leukemia.

I met Robert 12 years ago when I first moved to Ridgefield, CT. He was the first major figure in town I ever got to know and words can never express how gracious and kind he was to me. For crying out loud-  The Man From U.N.C.L.E gave me his home number! Life just comes at you with amazing blessings like that!

Over the years we would see each other in town, at the Playhouse and every so often, we'd go to Venice for lunch. Each time we got together it was a wonderful experience and Robert seemed to enjoy my company as much as I enjoyed his.

One of the COOLEST things he did for me was drive me in his top down convertible to what was then the Baskin Robbins on Danbury Road. He told me it [the convertible] was designed by the guy who made the Riddler car in the Batman TV Series! That was unforgettable!

While it's very sad to know he's gone, I look back and smile at the memories I have of him and the blessing of being able to say: Robert Vaughn was my friend.

God bless you Robert. I'll miss seeing you in in movies and television but most of all I'll miss your kind spirit that was evident in our phone calls or face to face meetings.

Rest In Peace Napoleon Solo