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Richard Gottmeier Obituary
Richard Peter Gottmeier, died on Wednesday, February 5, 2015 at his residence in Sandy Hook, CT. Richard was born September 21, 1949 in Youngstown, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents Walentyna (Schossler) Gottmeier and Richard Charles Gottmeier and granddaughter Caroline Myers. He is survived by his wife of 45 years Holly Ann (Chapman) Gottmeier and four children William C. Gottmeier, Peter C. Gottmeier, Melissa (Gottmeier) Sorrentino, Sarah (Gottmeier) Myers, Rachel Gottmeier and ten grandchildren. Richard and his wife Holly also opened their home to foster children for the State of Connecticut, providing shelter and love to over 50 foster children. He graduated from Liberty High School in Youngstown Ohio in 1967 and Ohio University in 1971 with a degree in Marketing with a minor in History and attained a Graduate degree through the US Army Command and General Staff College. Richard had a professional career in the office furniture industry. Progressing through positions of salesman, general manager, territory and regional manager. Richard retired from the Office Furniture industry in 2014. After retiring from the office furniture industry Richard worked part time as a substitute teacher in which he enjoyed making a positive impact in young people's lives. He served in the Army Reserves from 1972 to 1999 obtaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Lieutenant Colonel Gottmeier was a veteran of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He also served in various positions in the Medical Service Corps throughout this career. He finished his duty in the Army Reserves as a recruiter for the United States Military Academy at West Point, interviewing perspective cadets and their parents. Richard enjoyed spending time with his family, reading, history, good food, cooking, old cars and maintaining his house. Richard will be laid to rest in Saint Rose Cemetery in Sandy Hook, CT. The Wake for Richard will be Tuesday 10 February 4 to 8pm at Honan funeral Home Newtown, CT. Services will occur on Wednesday 11 February, 1030am at Saint Rose Church Newtown Ct. Instead of flowers the family requests a donation to the Wounded Warrior Program or the National Heart Foundation through their websites.
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Gottmeier
Sponsored by the family.
February 28, 2015
I had worked with Peter at GF Office Furniture in East Hartford and became the district manager for CT while Peter worked in NYC. I dearly hold many memories of Peter and I working together. He was totally unique with his broad smile and hearty laugh. He had an ability to charm customers away from their furniture problems. When we travelled together, all Peter wanted to know was "who do we have to see" and "where are we taking them to lunch?"
It was my enduring pleasure to work with him, to learn from him and to be in his company. I always think of him often and will continue to do so.
My sincerest sympathy to the Gottmeier family and to all his friends.
Bill Puttre~ Wallingford, CT
Brooke Gottmeier
February 14, 2015
Papa will always remain in my heart. He was a kind and jolly man, who I was always so very happy to see. When we would come and visit in the summers, I would love to hear his stories (the stories about my dad that my dad won't tell himself). Pa pa was always laughing and smiling and cared sincerely about everyone. He will forever be Pa pa, my grandfather.
Brooke Gottmeier
February 14, 2015
To me, Pa pa will always be smiling. He will always have a grin stretched far across his face with light wrinkles forming at the corner of his eyes. That's the way I've always seen him--happy. He used to take us to the carnival and to the dairy farm. He enjoyed it as much as us. He let us ride his tractor and let us help him cook dinner on the grill. I remember how he used take us to ride in his Jeep and how Will, Omi, and I would go drive around town with the top down and the wind in our hair. Never was he truly more happy than when he was spending time with his family. Pa pa will forever be in my heart.
Steve Ellen
February 13, 2015
Dear Holly,
I could not believe that Richard had passed away. I know that your family is so supportive of one another, and will ease each other during this dark and sad time. Eventually things will get better for all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Linda and I miss you.
Heather GOTTMEIER
February 12, 2015
PaPa will forever remain in our memory. Even though we never lived close, PaPa had a presence and will still continue after his passing. For instance, every time I get into my car,it will be a reminder of PaPa's obsession with
a clean car. I remember the time he came to visit. His visit was almost over and I was so relieved he didn't see the inside of my car. Well that all changed when he asked for something and it was in the back of my car. While he proceeded to follow me out to the car, all I could think of is how disappointed he will be. I open the hatch and there it was....one of my kids lollipops stuck to the inside hatch. I still laugh at that memory! There are so many memories. The visits to Omi and PaPa's home and he would run the generator at the crack of dawn in the summer so it was ready for winter,sneaking scotch and a cigar (as if Omi couldn't smell it!). Bill and I going to visit and he already had a list of chores for Bill to do while he was there. I will miss going to the mailbox and Bill getting letters from PaPa containing articles that he had read in the paper.
Whether PaPa was a hundred miles away or a thousand miles away, I have always had a piece of PaPa with me. Bill has numerous of PaPa's habits. Like when we are getting home from somewhere and Bill decides that he needs to tell each one of us what we are doing once we get in the house. Also the way he tells Will what he needs done around the house.
I couldn't be more proud that Bill inherited some of PaPa's traits too. Anyone that has ever had a moment with PaPa would know he is an incredible man with loyalty to his family,friends and country. He would give you the shirt off his back. I feel so lucky he was apart of our lives. It only brings me happiness to know he is with Caroline.
His presence will always be felt and he will ALWAYS be remembered.
Will Gottmeier
February 12, 2015
I will always remember the times Papa would let me ride on the lawn mower with him while cutting the grass. Then he would take me and my sister in his jeep to the ice cream store, on a dairy farm . I will miss him, and never forget all the times we spent together.
-Will Gottmeier
Mary Ann Haar
February 11, 2015
Holly and Family,
Words alone can not express my heart felt loss over Peter's passing. He was the consumate father, grandfather, husband and friend. I was one of the lucky ones; I got to work with Pete for over 30 years, first with GF then Miller and then OFI. Peter was a leader and the best one I know. He was also a strong customer advocate and was always fair and just. Many respect him, admire him and love him and no one will ever forget his infectious booming laugh. It was an honor to know him - he was a gift. Bless you all during this difficult time. My hope is that you will find comfort in the days ahead as you celebrate the life of a man who was a true hero to so many.
Pam Odice
February 10, 2015
Dear Holly and Family- We were so saddened to learn of Richard's passing.
Yoyu have our deepest condolences. He was truly a very special man and I will always remember him. Our prayers are with you. Pam and Ed Odice (Magic Machine Newtown)
Mike and Karen Vargo
February 10, 2015
My wife and I worked with Peter many years ago as he started his career in office furniture at GF Office Furniture. We remember him as a kind and caring person. We offer our prayers and the peace and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ to Peter and his family .
Jack Howard
February 10, 2015
My sincerest condolences to Pete's family on his passing. I worked with Pete on the New York Herman Miller team for a number of years and we maintained that friendship throughout our careers. Always smiling but also a create strategist, he raised the smile factor for everyone he came in contact with. I am very lucky to have known Pete and again so sorry for your loss. He will be missed but always remembered.
John and Delia Skrainski
February 10, 2015
To the dear family of Peter Gottmeier;
We served together for many years in the US Army Reserves. Peter was a great leader, mentor and teacher. He was an asset to himself, his Unit and the US Army. He will always be in our hearts. To his wife and family; there are no words or deeds that can heal the pain of his loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time and through these difficult days.
Carlos Cruz
February 9, 2015
Holly and family, my condolences to you and your family. Peter and I shared a bond as two U.S. Army Officers. He is a great friend and I will miss him.
February 9, 2015
Dear Holly and family,
We are still trying to process the news received last night about Richard's sudden passing. Susi and I have so many special memories and thoughts of our friend. Going back to Ohio U in the early days of your relationship and then watching over these many years the growth of your family. Richard epitomizes family, dedication, doing things for his companies, community and family always stemming from core and strongly expressed values. We will miss his hearty laugh and story telling but most of all his love for life and his family. We are sincerely sorry for this tremendous loss. As a friend we want to express our sincerest condolences and know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Susi & Allen Todres
Elisha (Torni) Rhinhart
February 9, 2015
Auntie Holly, Bill, Peter, Melissa, Sarah and Rachel- There are no words that I can say that will make the pain of the loss of a husband/father any easier. What I do have is love. I remember Uncle Richard's laugh as he, Pop-Pop, Uncle Steven and my dad reminisced at the dining room table in Hubbardston. The "woodlot" was always a beloved topic. The way I see it is that Heaven has gained a new angel and that angel is playing with his granddaughter and laughing and catching Pop-Pop and my dad up on all the happenings down here. Especially with the "woodlot". I love you all more than you know. I am so, so, so sorry for your loss. May God's peace help you get through this time and may you feel His angels wings hold you in a protective, loving embrace. Love you Uncle Richard. You taught me so much- up close and from afar.
Tonya Baethge
February 9, 2015
To Holly and Family-
My thoughts and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time.
I had the pleasure of working with Pete at OFI for the past 7 years. He was an inspiration and joy to be around. His most contagious quality was that booming, joy-filled laugh! No matter how bad your day was, once you heard that laugh fill the office, you couldn't help but smile and laugh with him.
I will miss baking pies for him and hearing all the pearls of wisdom he has gathered through the years. His strength, compassion and integrity were unmatched.
He was truly a blessing to this world and those who had the honor of knowing him are truly better people. May we all live and love life as Peter did.
With great sadness,
February 9, 2015
Dear Holly
I know you will feel lost but remember that death does not end a relationship and I know that Richard will watch over you , your kids , grandchildren and every one he ever loved. Look for little miracles because I know he will send them your way .
Sue Casale
Dave Gillman
February 9, 2015
I send my heartfelt condolences to Pete's family. I worked with Pete from Herman Miller in Michigan. I have traveled to NYC many times to work with Pete. There are those few people that as you work with them you gain a respect and friendship. Pete was one of those respected friends. I will miss him greatly, as I know many will.
February 9, 2015
My Dear Holly, you are in my thoughts and prayers. I will dearly miss Rich.
Jeanne Kennedy
Brad M
February 8, 2015
Condolences To The Entire Gottmeier Family. He Was a Great Man.
American Heart Association
February 8, 2015
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
Gayle Hill
February 8, 2015
Melissa & family. My deepest sympathies to you & your family during this difficult time. I will keep you close in prayer.
Gayle Hill
February 8, 2015
I was so saddened to here of Mr. Gottmeier's passing; is is a great man, father and husband. Extending my deepest sympathies all of the Gottmeier lineage...especially to Mrs. Gottmeier and their children; William, Peter, Melissa. Sarah, Rachel...as well as their respective families. Rest In Peace Mr. G.
God Bless you all,
Carey
Megan Michalski
February 8, 2015
To Holly and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at the very difficult time.
Pete loved you all so much and was so proud of his family. It was always nice to see him beam with pride when he would talk about all of you.
I had the honor of working directly with him for 9 wonderful years. His sense of humor, stories, sayings and patience will always be remembered. He was a true friend and mentor that was always trying help us all be better.
At the end of the day, may all the wonderful memories of such a wonderful man bring you comfort and peace.
John Blawie
February 8, 2015
News of the passing of my old friend and neighbor Richard, for whom I had the utmost regard, came as a shock. Words are inadequate to express my deepest and heartfelt sympathies to the Gottmeier family in your great loss. I join with you and his other friends in mourning Richard, this good man taken too soon. He was a true Catholic gentleman, one who knew the secrets of a rich, fulfilling life. So many beautiful traits made up his character. A man for others, Richard was always ready to help, whether it was working on my son Jack's Eagle Scout project at Cullens Memorial, or splitting wood for me around my own homestead. He was a great conversationalist, and we also enjoyed riding our bicycles over in Southbury on many a Sunday after church, especially on this beautiful stretch of country road we nicknamed Bluebird Hill.
May the same unswerving faith in his Lord and savior that Richard displayed throughout his life, the Father of mercies, bring you some measure of comfort and consolation in this time of great sorrow. When I became a Superior Court Judge in 2004, Richard and Holly came over that evening to extend their congratulations with a wonderful impromptu celebration. People now call me ‘Your Honor,' but in this good man's unfailing sense of duty, and his self-sacrificing service to God, family, friend and country, everything you need to know of Honor, you could learn from Richard Peter Gottmeier.
Bill and Barbara Brimmer
February 8, 2015
Richard and I met 23 years ago when we commute on Metro North into NYC from Bethel. Subsequently, I would see him at StRose where he led a team that did the collections. Richard was a very engaging and enlightened individual. Taken way too early and we grieve along with his family and friends.
February 8, 2015
to Holly Gottmeier and children, Mary and I cannot adequately express our sorrow in words, but in our hearts there is a special place for a kind gentle man who crossed our paths many years ago. We will continue to love you and the very vivid memory of Peter Gottmeier.
Vincent and Mary Giuliano, Hartford, Connecticut
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