Louis "Lou" Bachetti

Louis "Lou" Bachetti, 73, of Somers, entered into eternal life on Friday, July 26, 2013, surrounded by his loving wife Patricia (Houston) Bachetti, and his family.

Lou lived a wonderful and fulfilling life that was blessed with family, happiness, and treasured memories. He dedicated his life to family, good friends, and making the lives of those in need better every day. He leaves this world and those behind better for all that he has done. Lou was born Feb. 1, 1940, in Winsted, son of the late John and Angelina (Bonomi) Bachetti. He received an undergraduate and master's degree from Springfield College in 1964. In 1973, Lou became president and CEO of Goodwill Industries and led those efforts to support and better the lives of the underprivileged for 32 years. In his retirement, Lou served as co-founder and president of the Somers Education Foundation to support the quality and education of the town's youth. He served as chairman of the Somers Economic Development Commission and was a proud member of the Springfield and Somers Rotary Clubs since 1974. Lou loved spending his winters in southern Florida with his family and friends. He was also an avid horse racing fan and spent many happy days with family and friends at Saratoga and other favorite racetracks.

Lou is survived by his loving wife and friend, Pat, who shared 54 memorable years with him. He is survived by his loving children, Lynda Gallaway, and her partner, Tony Ouellet, of Somers, Terri Henderson, and her husband, Stephen, of Somers, his son, Louis Bachetti, and his wife, Noreen, of Barrington, R.I.; his nine cherished grandchildren who were the light of his life, Ashley, Lee, and Michael Gallaway, Erin and Dan Henderson, Jessica, Leah, Sarah, and Owen Bachetti; and his two grand dogs, Charlie and Bosco. He is also survived by his brother, Massimo Bachetti; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jim and Helene Clyburn; and several nieces and nephews. Lou will be missed by his many dear friends and members of the community. He was predeceased by his brothers, Libero, Bruno, Arturo, John, and Frank.

Family and friends may gather Wednesday, July 31, 2013, at 9:30 a.m. at Somers Funeral Home, 354 Main St., for a procession to All Saints Church, 25 School St., where a Mass of Christian Burial in celebration of Lou's life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Somers Center Cemetery.

His family will receive relatives and friends at Somers Funeral Home, on Tuesday, July 30, 2013, from 4 to 8 p.m.

Lou's family requests memorial donations be made in his name to Somers Education Foundation, P.O. Box 624, Somers, CT 06071; and Somers Rotary, P.O. Box 2, Somers, CT 06071.

To leave an online message of sympathy and for directions please visit

www.somersfuneralhome.com