Richard Jung

Jung, Richard
Richard Jung died Monday, May 4, 2015, after a 21-month battle with brain cancer. He was the husband of Marise Jung, who was at his side at his death. He also leaves behind his devoted daughters, Jillian and Joanna. Richard was born in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Norbert and Esther Jung. His father immigrated to the United States from Hamburg, Germany as a young child. Richard and Marise both grew up in Brooklyn, and made their first home there in 1983, moving to Brookfield, Connecticut in 1992, and then Southbury, Connecticut in 1994. Only one semester shy of receiving a BS from The College of Staten Island, (now known as Wagner College), Richard became a member of the New York City Fire Department, in Engine 257. He served from 1979 to 1991, when injuries sustained in a house fire made it necessary for him to retire. During that period of time, he was decorated six times, including once for, "Meritorious acts and selfless courage for saving the lives of two New York City Police Officers while in civilian clothing," in March of 1991. Shortly after relocating to Connecticut, Richard and his wife began a career building custom homes throughout the area. He put his heart into every home that was built and made many deep and lasting friendships along the way with both clients and subcontractors. While Richard absolutely loved the Fire Department, (still dreaming of it to the end of his life), and the lasting mark he was able to leave on the landscape of Connecticut, anyone who knew him knows he defined himself as a golfer. He began his training, with his dad, at the age of 7, and later refined his game under the tutelage of professional golfer, Jim Albus. He went on to win many major amateur tournaments, including becoming the first player to win the New York City high school championship three times, along with the PGA's NY Metropolitan Junior Championship in 1974. As an adult player, he was a three-time National Fire Dept. golf champion, and either placed or won many CSGA and MGA events after a seven-year hiatus due to his injuries. He holds the course record at The Heritage Golf Club in Southbury. There were many times he was unable to bend over to pick up his ball, due to the pain in his back, but his love of the game allowed him to play until 2008. A memorial mass will take place at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 13, at St. Teresa of Avila Church, Woodbury, CT. A celebration of Richard's life will take place at the family home that same day between the hours of 1:00-3:00 PM, and 5:00-7:00 PM. Anyone who would like to come and share a story or raise a glass in his honor is welcome. A scholarship fund has been established in Richard's honor. Anyone wishing to make a donation can make their check payable to: The Richard Jung Memorial Scholarship. The Southbury Funeral Home of Munson-Lovetere, 235 Main St. North is assisting the family with the arrangements. For online condolences, visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com