Westport Registrar, Former Selectman Bob Lasprogato Dies

WESTPORT, Conn. – Westport Republican Registrar of Voters Robert “Bob” Lasprogato, a jazz musician, former selectman and actor who appeared in the final episode of “The Sopranos,” died Monday night at Norwalk Hospital, a friend confirmed Tuesday. He was 71.

Westport Registrar of Voters, jazz musician, actor and former selectman Robert "Bob" Lasprogato died Monday night.
Photo Credit: *Bob Lasprogato.com*

Westport resident Bob Lasprogato, right, appears in the Westport Community Theatre production of "Enter Laughing" in 2010.
Photo Credit: *File*

Bob Lasprogato, a jazz drummer, performs with his band Uptown Jazz at last year's Westport Sunrise Rotary wine tasting event.
Photo Credit: *Westport Sunrise Rotary Facebook*

Bob Lasprogato serves as emcee of a past year's Westport Sunrise Rotary Great Duck Race.
Photo Credit: *File*

by Vanessa Inzitari

06/04/2013 1:00 p.m.

Lasprogato had been hospitalized since May 19 after a “heart-related event.” That announcement came from his colleague Marla Cowden, the Democratic Registrar of Voters, nearly two weeks ago during a Board of Finance meeting.

Lasprogato, a retired radio disc jockey, was elected the Republican Registrar of Voters in 2010. He was also a selectman from 2006 to 2009.

“With the death of Bob Lasprogato, Westport has lost not only a highly respected public servant, but a man who made it his life calling to help others,” Westport First Selectman Gordon Joseloff said in a statement Tuesday.

Outside of town government, Lasprogato was well-known in town as the drummer in his popular jazz band, Uptown Jazz. According to his biography, he started drumming professionally at age 17.

Lasprogato was also an actor, having appeared on stage, in movies, television shows and commercials. Some of his credits include “Bernie Waldoff Investment Securities IOU Capital,” “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: SVU” and “The Sopranos,” where he appeared in the final episode. (To see more of Lasprogato's credits, visit his official website.)

Locally, Lasprogato appeared in numerous productions with Westport Community Theatre, where he was also a past president.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Bob Lasprogato, our past president who gave WCT the greatest gift you could give — his time,” a message on the WCT website said. “His contributions are so numerous, from Board of Directors member, to technical adviser and actor – and most importantly, a dear friend and all-around great person.”

Lasprogato was also an active community volunteer with ties to organizations like Westport Sunrise Rotary. He was also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and a justice of the peace.

“Bob’s community volunteerism and involvement in many civic activities was legendary. He used his talents in music, the theater, and broadcasting to aid and promote many worthy causes that will miss his presence,” Joseloff said.

“Our deepest condolences to Joan and family. Bob left a lasting mark on Westport that will ensure his community spirit continues.”

Funeral arraignments have not yet been announced.

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