Richard Kender

"Loving Husband, Father & Grandfather"
Richard Kender, 75, of Southbury, CT formerly of Wingdale and Lindenhurst, NY, entered into the gates of Heaven on Thursday, September 28, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Francine R. (Vinckus) Kender for 54 years.
Richard was born in Brooklyn, NY on April 17, 1948 son of the late Walter and Dorothy (Kowalchuk) Kender. He received a Bachelor's Degree in Technology from the RCA Institute of Electronic Technology in New York City and went on to work as an IT Consultant for many years before becoming the Owner of Kender Consulting and Technology. Most recently, he was the Information Technology Manager for the Heritage Village Master Association.
Richard was one half of a duo. No matter where they went, everyone knew that it was Rich and Francine. Pop, as she so adoringly called him, would do anything for his Frannie. Over the course of their marriage their love of travel brought them all over the world, from Thailand and Australia, to their numerous trips around all of the Caribbean. They had many amazing adventures together. Their favorite way to travel by far was on a Princess Cruise ship. Fran does not like to fly, but that didn't stop Rich from giving her the world.
Starting his family on Long Island, Rich and Fran purchased a sailboat, "The Francine". He loved to spend days out in the Great South Bay with the sails up and the sun out. He was an expert captain and his son Lonnie was the perfect first mate.
Rich also loved to play craps. He played every chance he could get. From taking classes, to reading books, to watching videos online, he was obsessed. He loved the game so much, he convinced Fran they should purchase a regulation crap table for their living room. Together they would play nights on end, he would practice his throwing and she would collect his "winnings".
Over the many years, Fran convinced Rich that they "needed" all sorts of animals to fill their home. They've had birds, a raccoon, dogs and even a few mice – their home was never without a cat or two. And while Rich would say he did it for Fran, we could all see how much he loved them, especially their cat Rosie.
Richard was an only child and went on to have only one son. He was a kind and supportive father, but he was firm and strict. All that changed the day he went from being Dad to Grandpa. Rich leaves behind two grandchildren whom he loved very much. Nanny and Grandpa could be counted on to show up at soccer games, dance recitals, concerts and gymnastic meets. He passed on his love of craps to his grandson and was wrapped around his granddaughter's finger.
Richard was also an amazing friend and will be missed by many. He was never without his sense of humor, and was always up for a good Jack and Coke.
Besides his wife Francine, he leaves to honor and cherish his memory his son Lonnie Kender and his wife Jennifer of Poughkeepsie, NY and his two grandchildren whom he loved very much Justin and Larissa Kender also of Poughkeepsie, NY.
Arrangements: All arrangements will be private and at the convenience of the family. Brookside Memorial/The Albini Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 200 Benson Road Middlebury, CT has been entrusted with Richard's arrangements.