RICHARD OTTO SHARP

1947 - 2016

SHARP, RICHARD OTTO Richard Otto Sharp passed away peacefully Sunday morning, January 10, 2016, with his family by his side. Born October 10, 1947, in Fairfield, IA, Richard moved to Rockford, IL, at an early age. He moved to West Haven, CT in 1990. Rick worked in the West Haven School District, was Co-President of Local 2262 West Haven Federation of Paraprofessionals, and volunteered with Team West Haven Special Olympics for many years. Also happily employed at Yankee Candle and Sports Heaven. Richard is survived by daughters, Michelle (Russell) Sharpswain of Madison, WI. Lorraine (Doug) Janicke of Rockford, IL. Granddaughters Jenna Fairchild and Frances Sharpswain. Grandsons Tennyson and Simon Sharpswain. Sisters Jackie (Gene) Poncebaker of Aiken, SC, Mary (Tim) Files of Rockford, IL, and brother Robert Ingraham of Rockford, IL. Several nieces and nephews. Many friends, including girlfriend, Cheryl Gilson, friend, Donna LaPiara, and friend, Johanna Warner. Predeceased by father, Olas Wilson Sharp, mother, Marcia (Lee) Carey, and wife, Glorie Sharp. Cremation rites were observed. A Celebration of Life Ceremony and memorial bench dedication will be held near Bradley Point in West Haven on June 18, 2016. Details TBA. Announcements can be found on Facebook at Memorial Page for Richard Sharp. The West Haven Paraprofessionals, Local 2262, are sponsoring a student scholarship in Rick’s memory. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: West Haven High School ATTN: Pamela Gardner, Principal,1 McDonough Plaza,West Haven, CT 06516.Make check out to: WHHS Scholarship (write Rick Sharp in check memo)