Richard H. Dickson Sr.

Groton - Richard H. Dickson Sr., 78, of Smith St., died Thursday, Feb. 5, 2009, at home.

He was born in Philipsburg, Pa., on Sep. 30, 1930, the son of Warren and Margaret Dickson.

He married Mary E. O'Mara in Groton on Nov. 27, 1952.

Dick served in the U.S. Navy Submarine Service from 1948 to 1952. He was employed by Electric Boat from 1952 until retirement in 1988, serving as a test supervisor and engineering specialist. He was a member of the sea trial crew, riding the USS Nautilus when it was launched and during its third sea trial and sea trials for many other nuclear submarines including the first Trident submarine, USS Ohio. He was inducted into the Holland Club in 2003.

He was an avid golfer who enjoyed striding the links as a member at Shennecossett and loved dancing, traveling, and being with his family. He bowled and played softball in local leagues for many years. He was also a member of the Groton Lodge of Elks and the E.B. Athletic and E.B. Management Clubs.

Besides his wife Mary, he is survived by his children, Susan Dickson-Matsunami of Omaha, Nebr., Richard Jr. and his wife, Cheryl Dickson, of Noank, Thomas Dickson of Martinez, Calif., Stephen and his wife, Makonny Dickson, of the Faroe Islands, Denmark, and Christine Dickson of Groton; and five grandchildren, Erin, Paul, Killian, Richard, and Zoe. Dick, who came from a large, wonderful family of ten in Tyrone, Pa., is also survived by his brothers, Paul and his wife, Mary Dickson, of Tyrone, Earl Dickson of San Diego, Robert and his wife, Judy Dickson, of Garden Grove, Calif.; and sisters, Mary Jenkins of Fountain Valley, Calif., and Carol Parham of Huntington Beach, Calif.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brothers, John, Warren, Donald, and sister, Patricia.

Calling hours will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009, at Byles-Groton Memorial Home, 310 Thames St., Groton. A service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 9, 2009, at the funeral home followed by burial in Colonel Ledyard Cemetery.

For directions, obituary information, or to sign the family's online register book, please visit www.byles.com.