Richard Delaney Etlinger

Killingworth - Richard Delaney Etlinger, 71, of Killingworth, passed away on Aug. 18, 2013, after a short illness.

Richard was born on March 10, 1942, in Moulton, Texas, to Richard H. and Marie (Prasek) Etlinger.

He is survived by his loving wife of 13 years, Christine (Pettengill) Etlinger; son, Shawn and his wife, Celeste Etlinger, of Norwich; daughters, Shannon and her husband, William Baker, of Madison, Lori and husband, Kely Martins, of Milford, Mass., and Tara and husband, Michael Dykens, of Bellingham, Mass. Richard also leaves 10 grandchildren; a stepson, John Kurze III of Ivoryton; two step grandchildren; and a step great-granddaughter. Also surviving are his brother, Emmitt Etlinger and wife, Gerry, of Ganado, Texas; and a sister, Marie "Billie" and Leo Popp of Waco, Texas; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Rick joined the navy after receiving an associate's degree in engineering from Wharton County Junior College. The U.S. Navy submarine program created the opportunity to study nuclear energy. He was proud to be on the commissioning crew of the USS Greenling and later assigned to the USS Sabalo. In the mid-60s Rick was stationed in New London, where he grew roots and started a family. After working for several utility companies in New England and Michigan, he eventually returned to Ledyard, and later retired from Millstone Power Station in 2000. His most memorable travels were to Egypt and Sedona, Ariz., as well as many car trips to Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket.

There will be no calling hours, but a brief reception for friends and family will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 25, at the Beechwood Clubhouse, 18 Swan Lake Trail, Killingworth, CT 06419.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Killingworth Ambulance Association, 325 Route 81, Killingworth, CT 06419.