Clement Robert Ploof, 86, of Pawcatuck, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, at Westerly Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Known for his remarkable stubbornness, generous heart, and lifelong love of animals, Clement lived a full and fiercely independent life.
Born to Clement Robert Ploof and Bernice Glenna Monteith in Burlington, Vermont, on February 8, 1939, Clement grew up amidst the routines of farm life, where his affection for animals and the outdoors first began. He was always the one to take in a stray — whether it had fur, feathers, or simply needed a little kindness.
In his teenage years, Clement moved to Peabody, Massachusetts, and spent his summers working as a lifeguard on Cape Cod. The beach, the sun, and the sea remained some of his greatest loves throughout his life. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Clement carried with him the values of service, grit, and perseverance that shaped the person he became.
After his service, Clement made Connecticut his home. He built a successful career as an electrical contractor and master electrician, founding his own company and earning great respect for his skill, honesty, and work ethic. As a proud member of IBEW Local 90, he was always ready to lend a hand or trade skills with friends. His craftsmanship and loyalty were matched only by his generosity toward those he cared about.
Clement married the love of his life, Veronica-Kay (Thompson) Ploof, and together they shared fifty years of marriage filled with laughter, adventure, and family. They raised three children — Robert, Jeanette, and Kimberly — and were blessed with nine grandchildren. Clement was also the dedicated father to three children from a previous marriage, Tammi Ploof Docekal, Daniel Ploof and Angie Killam.
After retiring as the lead electrician from the Mystic Seaport Museum, Clement enjoyed a slower pace that still managed to stay full of life. He loved camping with his family, fishing, tending his rose and vegetable gardens, and, true to his nature, eventually turning his beekeeping hobby into a small business. His connection to nature — especially his love of flowers and animals — was a constant and defining presence.
He was a proud member of the Elks Club in Groton and cherished the many friendships he made through the years. Every winter, he could be found traveling south to warm up and visit the ocean, his favorite escape.
Clement was a man who faced life head-on. He received his last rites twice and, in true Clement fashion, defied every expectation in life. He met every challenge with courage and faith, never seen without his gold cross around his neck — a quiet reflection of his enduring belief and strength.
Clement is survived by his beloved wife, Veronica, his children Robert, Jeanette, and Kimberly, his nine grandchildren, his extended family, and many dear friends who will miss him deeply.
Family and friends are invited to gather for calling hours on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic, Connecticut. A reception will follow at the VFW at 3pm following the celebration.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations sent to Stand Up for Animals at https://standupforanimals.org/