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BORN
1943
DIED
2025
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Richard Roach Obituary
1943 - 2025
Torrington - Richard J. Roach, 81, of Torrington, CT, passed away on September 24, 2025, in Torrington, Connecticut. He was born on December 27, 1943, in Lynn, Massachusetts, and lived a life marked by service, devotion, and community involvement.
Richard dedicated his career to the Federal Aviation Administration, where he served as an Air Traffic Controller and from where he retired after 44 years. His commitment to ensuring the safety of air travel was only matched by his sense of duty to his country, having honorably served in the U.S. Navy, from which he was discharged in 1964.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Richard was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a proud member of the Torrington Elk's Lodge #372, and the American Legion.
Richard leaves behind his beloved wife, Linda Roach, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage. He was the proud father of three daughters, Beth Gaudette (Christopher) of Thomaston, CT, Amy Revere (John, Jr.) of Hudson, NC, and Erin Karpenko (Eric Schweder) of Oxford, CT. His legacy also continues through his five cherished grandchildren, Claire, Richard, Noe, Amber and Riley as well as several nieces and nephews who will carry forward the warmth and wisdom he imparted throughout his life.
He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Margaret (Hughes) Roach, as well as his brother, James Roach, and sister, Sr. Ann Dominic Roach, O.P.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, with the cortege leaving at 10:30 a.m. from Cook Funeral Home, 82 Litchfield St., Torrington, CT to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, (Our Lady of Hope Parish), 78 Litchfield Rd., Harwinton, CT, for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Final military honors will be accorded at the conclusion of the Mass at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Burial will be private. Relatives and friends may call on Monday, September 29, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Cook Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the winter homeless shelter, c/o Trinity Episcopal Church, 220 Prospect St., Torrington, CT 06790. Condolences may be sent to the Roach family by visiting www.cookfuneralhomect.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Roach
Sponsored by Cook Funeral Home - Torrington.
2 Entries
Peggy Walsh
October 20, 2025
My deep condolences to Linda and her family on their loss. I have many great memories of Richie from the years of working together at Bridgeport AFSS. He was just a wonderful person, gentle in spirit and had a great sense of humor. So many memories of those days come to mind and the special group of people who worked there. I just learned of his passing today from Roger Long and am sorry I was unable to attend the funeral. My thoughts are with the family. RIP, Richie.
Daniel Sylvernale EN3(SW) former
September 28, 2025
Even though we did not know each other we have a connection with the US NAVY shipmate. From one sailor to another I just wanted to let you know Sir You stand properly relieved, we have the watch from here. May you have Fair Winds and a Smooth following, RIP Sir and my condolences to his family.
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