Richard Charles Gillette

Richard Charles Gillette, 67, of Liberty Township, Ohio passed away peacefully while spending time with his family in Florida. He is the beloved husband of 42 years to Susan (Zwiebel) Gillette. Rick was born in Waterbury, CT on December 18, 1954, son of the late Charles and Barbara (Burns) Gillette. He grew up in Beacon Falls, CT and graduated from Naugatuck High School in 1972. He was proud to have been accepted to the United States Air Force Academy, but due to a sports injury he was unable to realize that dream. He attended Central Connecticut State University where he studied Industrial Technology .
After college, Rick helped out at his father's gas station, often manning the pumps. It was there that he met his wife, Sue. She was helping out at her father's car dealership by taking the cars for a fill up at the local gas station. His father-in-law would often joke that the dealership's gasoline bill skyrocketed that summer and the cars always seemed to have a full tank. After marrying, Rick and Sue settled in Milford, CT. They spent their winters skiing in Vermont and summers on the boat. Rick and his family moved to Cincinnati, Ohio in 1995 after having opened a paper manufacturing company there. Far from the ocean, the family discovered a new love of travel via motorhome. Together, they had many exciting adventures all across the country. He enjoyed golfing and cheering on his favorite teams - UCONN Football and Basketball and Miami University of Ohio Football where he and Sue enjoyed tailgating each home game with friends. Rick was the quintessential family man. He cherished his role as father and husband, always there for the big and small moments, and every moment in between.
Rick is survived by his beloved wife Susan (Zwiebel) Gillette; daughter, Amy Gray and her husband, Bryon, of Monroe, Ohio; son, Matthew Gillette of Madison, Wisconsin; brother, Mark Gillette and his wife, Kristen, of Torrington, Connecticut; sister, Krista Magura of Prospect, Connecticut; nieces and nephews, Scott (fiance Jessica), David (wife Kerry), Lauren (husband Matt), Glenn, Kelly and Rebecca; many close friends, too numerous to name and last, but certainly not least, his best buddy and dog, Pudge.
A celebration of life will be held later in the summer. Details to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name can be made to K9's For Warriors at www.k9sforwarriors.org/financial-donation/.