Arthur G. Todriff Sr.

Arthur G. Todriff Sr., 88, of Norwich, CT, entered into God's kingdom peacefully on September 12, 2023. He was born August 15, 1935, as Gene Rains to Charley Rains and Charlotte (Iverson) Rains in Chicago, Illinois. In 1940 he was adopted by Arthur W. Todriff and Marianne (Roslandowski) Todriff and his new name became Arthur Gene Todriff Sr.
Arthur was predeceased by his wife, Blanche Marie (Gaumond) Todriff, who died August, 6, 2020, son Arthur G. Todriff Jr. and daughter Noelle R. (Todriff) Mervan, and his two beloved cats, Blackie and Smokie. He is survived by his sons Randall G. Todriff, Todd W. Todriff, and daughters Crystal L. Todriff, Jennifer J. (Todriff) Smith, Jean A. Todriff, and Lynda L. (Todriff) Klaus, as well as many grandchildren, and cousins.
Arthur was known to all family and friends as Art. He graduated from Chicago Vocational High School, received an Associate's Degree at Northwestern University, Evanston, IL and went on to serve two years in the U.S. Coast Guard where he received the National Defense Service Medal while serving the USCGC Westwind. Art was proud of his military service and donated to our Veterans of Service throughout his years. After serving in the military, Art went on to work as an Executive Steward in various prestigious Chicago Hotels where he obliged and pampered many celebrities, he had the pleasure of serving. Art slowed down his role as Executive Steward in his later years with Amtrak National Railroad Passenger Corporation, where he worked as Lead Service Steward for eleven years that afforded him the luxury of traveling throughout the United States. Art retired in 1999 that left him a legacy of stories he would go on to share with family and friends through the years.
Art was caring, funny, and known for his story telling. He was curious and his inquisitiveness and keen intellect drove all his pursuits. He spoke often of his family, children and life experiences. He was a devout Christian and reminisced often of having the honor of meeting and sharing a cup of coffee with Pope John Paul 11th in 1979 during his employment at the Chicago Drake Hotel. Art's spiritual journey is what led him to meet Blanche Gaumond. Their love for one another led them to marry on August 3, 2013. Art was a devoted husband to Blanche and was always by her side. Together they enjoyed life, celebrating July 4th picnics at their cousins, Christmas with family, hosting New Year's dinner for family and taking train rides to see the beautiful United States. Art was a fan of the Chicago Cubs, enjoyed collecting Norman Rockwell memorabilia, Wedgwood Plates, stamps and was fond of Irish Whiskey.
On August 6, 2020, Art's beloved wife Blanche passed away and entered the gates of heaven to be with her father, mother, and brother. Art was heart broken, but family and his feline companions, Blackie and Smokie comforted him and warmed his heart during this time. Art left his imprint on all who had the pleasure of knowing him and he will never be forgotten.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 9:30 AM at the Sacred Heart Church (156 Providence St, Taftville, CT 06380) followed by a graveside service with military honors at the Sacred Heart Cemetery (260 Harland Rd, Norwich, CT 06360).