John Richard Cummings

John Richard Cummings of Hamden, CT entered into eternal rest on May 13, 2013 at Masonicare Hospice in Wallingford, CT after a courageous year-long struggle with cancer. John was born in Waterbury, CT., Mar. 24, 1945, son of the late Dorothy (Tierney) and Francis M. Cummings. He was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School in Waterbury and Paier School (College) of Art in Hamden. He leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Mary Lou Rovelli Cummings. Loving father of Christine C. Milbank and her husband Thomas of Holladay, UT and Deborah J. Burt of Wallingford, CT. He also leaves a brother, Army Col. Francis J. Cummings (Ret.) and wife Ann of Boiling Springs, PA. Grandfather to three cherished grandchildren, Brian Burt, Nathaniel Milbank and Katherine Milbank. He is also survived by several cousins and a niece, Lisa Edwards (David) of S. Weber, UT and nephews David Cummings (Lorena) of San Antonio, TX and Kevin and Christopher Rovelli of Newtown, CT. In addition, he leaves two brothers-in-law, David L. Rovelli (Sandra) of Middletown, CT and Daniel F. Rovelli (Dr. Ana Paula Machado) of Newtown, CT. While serving in the Air Force from 1968-72 at Columbus Air Force Base in Columbus, MS, John managed a PT Wing and Command Operations Graphic and Photographic Support. He later returned to Conn. to complete a 5th portfolio year at Paier School of Art. He briefly taught art part-time at several local colleges. His next 39 years were spent as the Creative/Design Director-Graphic Resource Dept. at the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council in New Haven, CT. This included the introduction of digital graphics to the department. In addition, he served as their official photographer, taking part in the 1995 Special Olympics World Games, Connecticut, as well as having the privilege of photographing Pope John Paul II during his 1995 U.S. Papal Visit and Mother Teresa's 1988 visit to the Supreme Council Headquarters. He was a member of many professional associations over the years. John was a kind and loving man who was blessed with patience and a good-natured disposition. His many friends included his classmates from Sacred Heart High School in his beloved city of Waterbury. His Irish wit and tales were endless. Always ready to try new things, John decided to take up golf and the guitar as his retirement drew near. His love of art and of man's creativity was ever present. But most important to him was his family, whom he loved dearly. The family would like to thank the staff of the Father Michael J. McGivney Cancer Center, St. Raphael Campus, as well as the staff of Verdi-4 West, St. Raphael'sand Masonicare Hospice, Wallingford, CT.Funeral from Sisk Brothers Funeral Home 3105 Whiney Ave. Hamden Friday at 9:30 am, Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Joan of Arc Church. Burial in St. Johns Cemetery, Wallingford. Calling hours are Thursday 4 - 8 pm. In lieu of flowers contributions to a charity of one's choice. www.siskbrothers.com