Paul L. Richards Jr.

NEW HARTFORD -
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Paul L. Richards Jr., "Red," of New Hartford, on April 15, 2024 after a brief stay at Cherry Brook Nursing home.
Born in Waterbury, CT on June 10, 1940, he was the son of the late Paul L Richards Sr. and Getha (Weed) Richards. Red graduated from the Gilbert School and started working for O&G Construction as a heavy equipment mechanic. He worked there until his retirement in September 2000.
In 1966, Red married the love of his life, Diane M Orlich and they enjoyed 58 years together. Their family was made complete when their daughter and son arrived. He was very involved in their activities, serving as a Boy Scout leader, square dance chaperone and attending so many swim meets that other kids would ask him to time their races.
Red had a love of cars from a young age. He loved the corvettes he had before settling down with his family. He raced cars at Riverside Park and was a huge NASCAR fan. He was a member of the New Hartford Volunteer Fire Department from the late sixties until the early eighties serving as Captain at the West Hill station.
Red loved to travel and fulfilled his dream of exploring all 50 states with his wife by his side. After his retirement, they spent more and more time in Florida, eventually spending the winters in Ormond Beach, their home away from home. Red was a social butterfly and loved visiting people; he could talk for hours. His favorite saying was, "All there are is red heads and those that wish they were."
Surviving is his beloved wife, Diane Richards; his daughter and son by marriage, Kim and Stephen Elovirta of Barkhamsted, CT; his son and daughter by marriage, Paul and Jeannie Richards of Colebrook, CT; 6 grandchildren; Seth, Tegi, Chase, and Lexi Elovirta and Justin and Erin Richards; 6 great grandchildren; his sister, Pearl Dondero of Indian Land, SC; as well as many nieces and nephews.
The burial will be at Forest View Cemetery in Winsted. Services will be private. Montano-Shea Funeral Home has charge of arrangements. Visit an online guestbook at montano-shea.com.