Richard J. Popillo

Richard "Rich" J. Popillo, 89, of Vernon, beloved husband of the late Gloria (Morey) Popillo, entered into eternal rest surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, April 20, 2023. Born February 8, 1934, in Hartford, he was the son of the late Victor and Clara (Vallery) Popillo. For 18 years, he lived in the Italian South End of Hartford. He graduated from Bulkeley High School and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. During his military service, he met Gloria, his best friend. They would soon marry and start a family. They lived in Bloomfield for a short time before moving to Newington, where they raised their children before settling in Vernon. Rich was a proud and dedicated member of the Newington Volunteer Fire Dept. Co. 2 for over 18 years and was a member of the Newington Veteran Firefighters Association. He was employed by Pratt and Whitney Aircraft as a supervisor and retired after 35 years of service. After retirement, Rich spent many years as a director's assistant for several area funeral homes.

Rich loved his wife and family and they spent most of their time together. Most memorable were their yearly vacations at Lake Memphremagog in Newport, VT. He was a fan of the Giants, Red Sox, Whalers, Carolina Hurricanes, and loved golfing with his wife and sons. He and Gloria were the storybook couple and their love and faithfulness were an inspiration, not only to their children, but to all who knew them. They loved cruises, taking vacations together and boating on Long Island Sound. As a dad, you could not ask for a better man, role model and hero.

A loving and devoted father, grandfather and great grandfather, he leaves his sons and daughters-in-law Rick and Bette Popillo of Kiawah Island, SC, Tom Popillo of Newington, Ken and Julie Popillo of Newington; daughters and son-in-law Lisa and Dan Wolf of Vernon, and Gina Benson of Southington; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren. He also leaves a dear brother and sister-in-law Don and Debbie Popillo of Glastonbury; his brother-in-law Emery St. Martin of Manchester; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his sister Diane St. Martin and daughter-in-law Margaret Popillo. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Sunday, April 30, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Duksa Family Funeral Homes at Newington Memorial, 20 Bonair Ave., Newington. His funeral service will begin on Monday, May 1, 2023, at 9:00 am at Newington Memorial followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at the Church of the Holy Spirit, 183 Church St., Newington. He will be laid to rest beside Gloria with military honors in West Meadow Cemetery, Newington.

Memorial donations may be made to the Newington Volunteer Fire Dept., 1485 Main St., Newington. To share your sympathy, please visit us at www.duksa.net.