Search by Name

Search by Name

Richard Diedrichsen Obituary

Richard D. Diedrichsen
Richard P. Diedrichsen, 75, son of Dorothy and Clarence Diedrichsen, passed away in his Lordship home on January 29, 2025. He was a graduate of Stratford High School, and graduated cum laude from Assumption College. Richard earned his masters degree from Marquette University on a full scholarship and later received a 6th year certificate in German from Yale/SCSU. "Mr. D" spent the majority of his teaching career at Bunnell High School teaching English, creative writing and coaching soccer. He organized local performances for the poetry club and worked with the school drama department. Richard was a cultural pillar of his school community. He joked that he would teach until he was 100 and then start a Bob Dylan tribute band with his sons. Under his tenure as Head Coach the Bunnell soccer team won several CCIAC titles. He was awarded CCIAC coach of the year in 1991, and was inducted into the Bunnell High School athletic hall of fame in 2011. Richard was instrumental in planting the seeds that would grow the popularity of soccer in Stratford. He organized soccer camps and coaching clinics at Sterling House. He also chaired the coalition to restore the Short Beach Soccer Field. His passion for soccer and coaching led him to co-write 2 books on coaching and sports psychology. Richard also loved playing soccer with the Stratford Coaches Soccer Club, of which he was a founding member. As a leading member of HSV Bavaria, a local German Dance group, he danced with his wife and daughter in many National and international performances. He even traveled to Munich to perform at the Oktoberfest, earnestly earning the nickname "Herr Gemutlich" which translates to "Mr. Goodtimes". Richard cared deeply for the community. He served as president of the Lordship Improvement Association and was a long time member of the Lordship Fathers Club. He received the Lighthouse Award for service to his community from the Stratford Community Fund. He researched the lives of Lordship's WWII veterans and honored them with a speech annually on Memorial Day. He was a faithful parishioner of Our Lady of Peace Church. Family and friends were the most important part of Rich's life. He was a loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He was enthusiastic about facilitating ways for his children to pursue their interests. He loved gardening, art and poetry as well as singing, dancing and playing guitar. Rich especially enjoyed spending time at the beach with his family and all the families of Carnivale. His legendary thanksgiving "grace" blessings were both loving and hilarious. Truly a performance to behold. Richard is survived by Julie Diedrichsen - his loving wife of 49 years, his 3 children, Nickolaus (Hannah) Diedrichsen, Lena (David Krochko) Diedrichsen, John Diedrichsen, grandsons Louis and Samuel, his sister Joan (Robert) Root and his brother Neil (Janice) Diedrichsen and many beloved nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass at Our Lady of Peace Church will be celebrated on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. Arrangements were entrusted to the Galello-Luchansky Funeral Home, 2220 Main Street, Stratford. In lieu of flowers, those who so desire may contribute in Richard's memory to The Sterling House, 2283 Main St., Stratford CT 06615, The Lordship's Father Club, 21½ Prospect Drive, Stratford, CT 06615 or Lordship Improvement Association, Inc., P.O. Box 313, Stratford, CT 06615. To celebrate his life, please visit us at www.galellofuneralhome.com .

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Connecticut Post on Feb. 1, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Diedrichsen

Sponsored by Galello-Luchansky Funeral & Cremation Services.

Not sure what to say?





Pamela Card Castagna

July 2, 2025

I am just hearing of one of the most favorable teacher I have ever known. My condolences to the family. I am deeply sorry for the loss of Richard. What a great teacher he was and friend very close to my heart.

Tom Carlin

February 11, 2025

This is a late awareness, but sad none the less. Goodbye to another good guy from Lordship. Peace upon the family.

Rebecca Moy

February 10, 2025

My deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. D. Though I had not seen him in nearly 25 years, I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing. He remains one of the most memorable teachers I ever had, and his calm presence, patience, support and the confidence he sought to instill in his students still resonate with me today. Thank you, Mr. D!

Chuck Kochiss

February 8, 2025

Heartfelt condolences to the Diedrichsen family. I first met Rich in the 7th grade in JJHS. We were in the same class and soon became close friends. We shared many wonderful times through highschool and created memories that are lifetime treasures. Our lives diverged and we went our separate ways as life often directs us. We reconnected in retirement. He was the same wonderful man that he was 40 years earlier and our friendship flourished. I was privileged to be his friend.
His influence on his community cannot be overstated. He is sorely missed already. Rest in peace dear friend.

Steve Raguskus

February 7, 2025

I don´t remember where I first met Rich Diedrichsen. It might have been over a beer in the tasting room at Two Roads. Or it might have been volunteering at the annual festival at Shakespeare Theatre. I do know that over the years we spent many hours together at both spots (and others, as well). It always made my day special to see him.

I remember Rich introducing me to Chico Chacurian, a man in his 90´s with a lifetime full of stories to share, a man who had to be pushed to talk about his being inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1992. I remember the number of people who were so excited to see Mr. D; I´m pretty sure everyone in Stratford knew him!

Rich´s friendship meant the world to me. Sitting at Two Roads with him was more than sharing a beer, it was sharing our lives. I missed having him as a teacher by just a couple of years, but he taught me more over the years than I ever learned in any classroom.

During COVID, I spent a lot of time down at the Sea Wall and I was lucky enough to run into Rich there a couple of times. It meant so much to me that he got to meet Elana there. He was happy to see me so happy.

I just found out that Mr. D passed away last week. Rest in Peace, Rich. Thank you for being a part of my life.

Christine Kochefko Higgins

February 5, 2025

We were so sorry to hear of this sad news. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers- he was such a great guy! Sending love and strength your way , Christie Kochefko Higgins and family

Harry Noyes

February 5, 2025

Julie
My thoughts and prayers are with you at the passing of a friend and colleague Rich.

Harry Noyes

Arthur Field

February 5, 2025

Richie D was one of my first friends and soccer teammates in Milford, CT. He was always a true gentleman. His intellect and humor combined with true humility and a giving nature added grace to every situation. His laugh was infectious and his ever-present smile lit up every room. I treasure his memory and am saddened to learn of his passing. Wishing Julie and the family my deepest condolences.

John Butchko

February 4, 2025

I was deeply saddened to hear of Richard's passing. I fondly remember him as a fellow colleague at Bunnell HS, where I taught with him for a brief time. He was the consummate professional, and a very intelligent, kind man whom I'll always remember with admiration. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the numerous students whose life he touched and influenced.

Cheryl Moore

February 4, 2025

Julie.
So sorry to hear to hear of the passing of your wonderful husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you
Cheryl Moore

James Retarides

February 3, 2025

From MR. D´s retirement party at Stonebridge

Ron and Mary DeBiase

February 3, 2025

So sorry for your loss Julie. He will be in our prayers.
Ron and Mary DeBiase

Paula Sweeley

February 3, 2025

I am a fairly new member of Lordship Improvement Association, but I am just learning about how Richard spearheaded the development of this precious and unique organization. From now on, I will thank Richard in my heart as I enjoy the beauty around me and the fellowship of Lordship improvement Association. Rest in peace Richard and sincere condolences to your loved ones.

Jean Collier

February 3, 2025

Sending condolences and prayers to Julie and the entire family. I´ve known Mr. D since I was 14 years old and he was my English teacher at Johnson Junior High School. He was a cool teacher who gave each student the attention we needed to succeed. It was hard to call him Rich as I grew up and spent time with him in the neighborhood. He was funny, smart, great listener and a wonderful human and great community leader and volunteer. Rich, you left us quite a legacy and a call to action to support our community and lead with love and activism. You are missed.

Ernie Ricco

February 2, 2025

My thoughts are with Rich´s family and friends ... He was a nice person that I would venture to say every one liked ... teacher, coach, father, brother, son, husband, friend, neighbor ... Rich was cool to be around ... but anyone that knew Rich already knew that ... good memories ... good life ... let´s hear it for Rich ... "Eins, zwei.... g'suffa!"

Beverly Lagerfeldt

February 2, 2025

To Julie and your entire family, my sincere condolences for your loss. Rich will always be the perfect example of a life well lived. A true gentleman. We are better for having known him.

Karen Kiely

February 2, 2025

Julie, my heart breaks for you. Rich was such a wonderful man. My fondest memories of him were when he was a summer counselor at the Lordship "playground". Karen Kiely

Kyle Dunn Perkins

February 1, 2025

Sincere condolences to the Diedrichsen Family. We went to SHS together, Class of `68. We would say `Hi" while passing between classes. We had Mutual friends also. Wish we could all go back to those `happy days´.

Nancy C

February 1, 2025

Rich was an important educational guidance figure from summer playground program days until junior high school. After that, Rich became a close family friend especially to my father, sharing the love and development of soccer in Stratford. He also played a significant part in the dedication of the short beach soccer field to my father. Rest in Peace, Rich. Your kindness lives on in all you met.

Michael Riccio

February 1, 2025

My sincere condolences to the entire family. Rich and I go back to our first years teaching at Johnson Jr. High. An extremely bright man and great teacher.

Judith Rozarie

February 1, 2025

Met him when I was a kid, going to the playground at Lordship School. He did the sports programs, as well as whatever else needed doing. A good guy, knew him for years afterwards, catching up when I substituted at Bunnell for a year. Nick became friends with Jeremiah, and I was lucky enough to have him as a student at HCC. Rich was great to my friend Louise's Dad, Chico...instrumental in naming the soccer field after him! So sorry for the loss of this guy, Nick and family.

Betsy & Thom Meadows

February 1, 2025

Dear dear Julie, Nick, Hannah, Lena, Dave, John & the Family- we are holding you all in our love & prayers. Rich was (& still is!) such a wonderful gentleman man & Opa!!!! What a treasure to know him & have the opportunities we´ve had to enjoy his conversation, humor & friendship. He was & is very loved by us. We love you & have watched you all field these last difficult years with such love & grace in caring for him with dignity & honor. I know he is so aware of the blessings you´ve been to him now.

Charlotte T. Matthews

February 1, 2025

So sorry to learn of Richard's passing. He was my son's soccer coach back in the late 80's at Bunnell. He often visited Long Beach when we had our Marsh Classes. My sincere sympathy to all of Rich's Family. Blessings......

James Retarides

February 1, 2025

Through high school, college and two graduate programs, Mr. D was the best teacher I have ever had. If not for him, I would have never believed I would have even been college material.

Having him as an English teacher was like having every fifth period with Oscar Wilde. I took him again senior year instead of AP because I somehow knew he was one of one.

He showed up at my scholarship award ceremony in New Haven and stayed in touch with me during and after college. Last time I saw him was at his retirement party and we emailed just once after that. He came from a generation of men who were not generally encouraging but somehow was the most encouraging man I have ever met.

He proudly displayed a shirt I had made of us in his classroom until his final day. To this day, when I am working with my psychotherapy clients I invoke a bit of Mr. D. The gentle sarcasm and the ability to take everything just seriously enough and no more, as well as the care and support of every person in my care.

He was a mentor and coach to many and a second father to some of us. I am so lucky to have known him. He spoke proudly of his children (especially Nick at the time) so I know how much they must be grieving his loss.

My best to his family. The world lost a little more character this week at a time when it needs character the most.

Larissa DeLorenzo

February 1, 2025

Mr D was one of the first adults I found a connection with in my youth. He would say before every quiz or test "Do a great job" so sincerely. I asked him, "Why do you say that every time?" And he simply responded, "because I mean it" and smiled. His words continue to echo in my head often even today. He showed up later in my life visiting me during my musical career and it brought me such gratitude that he cared. My heart is with his family & friends, I can only imagine how much he´ll be missed.

Christine Griffin

February 1, 2025

One of the kindest, most sincere and hard working people I know. His positive attitude and engaging personality was a gift to everyone he met. Planting daffodils on the bluffs is a lasting memory of someone I call a true friend to all.

Jess Toth-Mullaly

February 1, 2025

Absolutely loved Mr. D!!! I have fond memories of working with him, selling tickets for our BHS STAGE productions. He was so kind and genuine. Sending love and sympathy.

Judy Mudre

February 1, 2025

Rich was a great teacher and a phenomenal person. He had the best smile and laugh. He was loved by so many people. My condolences to Julie and family.

Alicia Banks

February 1, 2025

This man was one of the best.

Richard Diedrichsen made me believe I could do whatever I set my mind to, all while staying true to the person I am. He encouraged me to find my voice, to write the lines, to share my thoughts and ideas. He was my favorite teacher in high school, and he became a friend as the years rolled by. We would attend and perform at poetry reads while I was at SCSU. I loved running into him around town, whether at the grocery store or the library. I helped him pack up his classroom when he retired (where he showed me he STILL had my junior year notebook he used as an example of how he wanted students to set theirs up for his class). I look back fondly to when he met my daughter for the first time.

I am absolutely heartbroken to hear of his passing. Mr. D, you were always a calm in the storm.

Showing 1 - 29 of 29 results

Make a Donation
in Richard Diedrichsen's name

Memorial Events
for Richard Diedrichsen

Feb

6

Memorial Mass

10:30 a.m.

Our Lady of Peace Church

CT

Funeral services provided by:

Galello-Luchansky Funeral & Cremation Services

2220 Main St, Stratford, CT 06615

How to support Richard's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard Diedrichsen's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more