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Ryan Richard Obituary
Ryan grew up in Meriden, Waterbury, Wolcott, and Cheshire. He was an outstanding basketball player at Cheshire High School and also played at Southern Connecticut State University. He enlisted as an infantryman in the U.S. Army; and he received the Combat Infantry Badge and other decorations for his service in Iraq during Operation Desert Storm with the 3rd Infantry Division. For the past 12 years Ryan had lived in Phoenix, Ariz.
Ryan was a single parent and was devoted to his three children, Regan, Taylor, and Kyle; also survived by his parents, William and Judith Richard of Wolcott; and his brother and sister-in-law, Kyle and Maureen Richard.
Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service for Ryan which will be held at the All Saints Episcopal Church, 252 Bound Line Road, Wolcott, on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 10:30 a.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ryan Richard
Robyn
February 7, 2025
I will never forget you Ryan...
You were one of my closest friend´s a beautiful soul!
Robyn
February 12, 2024
Always remembered Never forgotten.
Love and miss you you Ryan
I´ll see you again one day
Robyn
Maria
March 9, 2009
My prayers go out to the Ryan family. Although meeting Ryan through a professional introduction, it was so very clear he was such a good soul and a man anyone would feel privileged to call a friend. He moved me with his relentless dedication and love for his children.
Sivi Lentz
March 6, 2009
My heart felt prayers go out to you and your family. Ryan was my son's hero. We used to go over and play when Reagan was about 3 or 4. Our oldest kids were about the same age and played chase around the backyard. So that you have some idea of who I am, I am the girl that picked up Ryan before work while you watched the children for about 3 months. We were very good friends and had some funny times during those early morning rides from downtown to his house to get ready for work. Please let me know if I may be of any help to you in Arizona. I am a paralegal and can get paperwork etc. if Kyle does not still live here. God Bless you all. I will light a candle for Ryan and family. Your friend in Az. Love, Sivi Lentz
christopher galliher
March 4, 2009
I am sorry for your loss, and deeply sadened for the death of rich, me and him were really good freinds in the 3rd infantry division in ashauffenburgh Germany,we both served in the same platoon during the Gulf war. please write to me and let me know what happened to him to contribute his death,we all were a click im chris galliher,there was fontaine talamoni, ruben lomeli,and talamama limagua we all were best freinds, this hurts and floors me i am so sorry for your loss,for years ive been trying to find Rich but im sorry it ended this way my email is [email protected] please give me info on my freind.
Charlie Mandala
February 24, 2009
I am deeply saddened to hear of Ryans passing. Ryan was a good friend with a generous heart. Ryan always had the abilty to make you feel like everything was going to be ok. Ryan's humor and kind words will be missed. Rest in peace my friend.
Wayne and Helen Ouellette
February 23, 2009
Dear Judy and Bill,
Wayne and I wish express our deepest regrets over Ryan. May God Bless your family.
Cathleen Buchanan O'Hare
February 22, 2009
Dear Richard Family,
With much sadness I hear the news of Ryan's passing. He was a fun-loving guy pal from my highschool and a great friend to many. I will cherish the good memories and pray for strength for his children.
Jim Gaiser
February 22, 2009
Ryan is a guy that I liked from the moment I met him. He had the ability to get my attention and contribute to a smile on my face. Although I only met him in September 2008, the brief time that we shared was great. I miss Ryan. I am grateful to know that Ryan has gone to be with God in the Heaven above. To the Richard Family, I extend my condolences.
Ellen McCarthy Michaud
February 22, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Ryan's passing. I went to high school with Ryan and I remember him to always be happy and friendly. My thoughts and prayers are with his children and his family.
Deb Hochheiser DeFanti
February 21, 2009
I haven't seen Ryan in about 15 years. We were very good friends in high school and if the walls in my old house could talk, I think they would have endless stories to tell about him.
Ryan was 'that' guy everyone wanted to be around. He was funny, athletic, handsome, smart and made everyone around him feel good. It breaks my heart for everyone that knew him that he is gone but I'm pretty sure he is watching over us with that big Cheshire cat grin of his...and that warms my heart.
Mike Farrell
February 20, 2009
I am saddened to hear the news about Ryan's passing. I had a lot of great memories of Ryan and my brother hanging out in high school. He was very good to me and I will always remember it. My prayers go out to his family during these times.
Bill Zam
February 20, 2009
“I’m going to visit my uncle in Gnome.”
“Gnome?”
“Of course I know ‘im…he’s my uncle!”
I remember the week my friend Ryan tried that corny joke on me and everybody else on our basketball team. Most of us responded with “When?” or “Where is that?” rather than the appropriate set-up. But as he explained why we messed up his gag, we all laughed anyway. Why? Because it was Ryan, and that devilish grin wouldn’t permit you to keep a straight face, just like when he screamed your nickname in the hall or let loose one of his patented dog barks.
That same mischievous smile is what drew me out of the second floor window of my parents’ house at 2 a.m. one night during high school. I left a pillow dummy in my bed, and then the two of us live dummies took off to the local Youth Center to play full-court, one-on-one basketball in the snow by moonlight.
I could never compete with Ryan on the court, but in the corny joke department it was always a good game. After a few hours of laughs, he dropped me off and I carefully, quietly scaled the roof back to my bedroom window. It was locked.
My parents had caught me, and neither they nor I did any smiling the rest of that night. Since then, however, I have been telling that story for two decades and I have smiled a big Ryan grin every time. Until today. That’s when I learned that Ryan passed away.
For the first time since that night, I told the story without laughing. It suddenly seems very quiet.
In my heart, though, I know Ryan is just peacefully making his way up that long rooftop, and when he gets there, the window will not be locked. I can almost hear that patented dog bark in the distance.
Gnome? I’m glad I did.
Padma Durvasula
February 20, 2009
As a shy quiet wallflower in high school I always remember the people who were kind to me and looked past my awkward exterior.. Ryan was one of them and when I bumped into him years later I thanked him for that. My thoughts and blessings are with his family
Padma Durvasula
Ron Six
February 20, 2009
Kyle,Reagan,Tayler, and little Kyle,
Ryan was a greta friend of mine. Our kids would play together. When I heard the news it was very shocking because no earlier than three days he was in my clinic saying how much he enjoyed the AZ warmth. We set a couple of lunches and never was able to get them. I loved our little side bets on everything you could possibly bet on. We played hundreds of games of horse in the pool. He is very competitive. Mostly he made me feel good when I was around him. Your Dad and Brother had the ability to pick up a persons spirit even when you attended to pick his up. He was never low enough where he couldn't reach down and pick you up. Being a big brother and a father I can't imagine how you all must feel. My boys SPencer and Carson ask about the girls often and I just tell them that you live in UCONN country now. I will miss you kids and I will miss your father. He loved you so very, very much.
Beth Leetch Schweitzer
February 20, 2009
I will always remember Ryan as a tall handsome guy with a smile on his face, walking the halls of Cheshire High School. He was the kind of person that drew people to him. My condolances to his parents, children, family and friends. My thoughts and prayers for comfort will be with you.
Dan Grabowski
February 20, 2009
Kyle, Maureen and the Richard Family, I did not know Ryan very well, but I was close friends with Kyle and Maureen at old Platt High. I was very saddened to hear of Ryan's passing. There is a special bond between brothers, Kyle, and this must be especially hard for you. Please know that you and your family, and Ryan's three children, are in my thoughts and prayers.
Molly Schmitt Grabowski
February 19, 2009
I have many happy and fun memories of Ryan. I knew him when he lived in Meriden and attended Hanover, Lincoln, and a short time at Platt High School. While it has been several years since I have seen Ryan, I am truly saddened by his passing. My deepest sympathy goes to his three children and his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Christine Pastore
February 19, 2009
I am so sorry and sad to hear of Ryan's passing. I went to high school with him and he was in my French class. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike Wright
February 19, 2009
I met Ryan when he moved to Cheshire and he and I became quick friends! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family! We'll miss you Ryan!
Greg Pettit
February 19, 2009
Ryan, you were the best friend anyone could ever hope for. It saddens me that you weren't able to make it up for the NCAA's a couple years ago. I always took it for granted that it would happen eventually. Now I am extremely regretful that it didn't happen, but on the other hand, extremely grateful to have been friends with you, and my life is much better for it. Although we didn't talk on the phone often, my life will never be the same now that you are gone, and I will miss you for the rest of my days until we meet again. You played a big part in what my life is today, and for that I am forever grateful. I love you, man. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and 3 beautiful children.
Wendy Lombardo
February 19, 2009
Maureen and Kyle, My condolences I am very sorry for your loss. I will be away but you will be in my thoughts in this time of sorrow. Bless you both.
Christopher Whalen
February 18, 2009
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Richard:
I'm terribly sorry to hear about Ryan's passing. In recent years I had the pleasure to see in person what a loving and devoted father he truly was to his children - quite inspiring, in fact. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family, most especially your grandchildren. Ryan touched the lives of many people and will never be forgotten. I miss him so much already. God Bless.
Sue Vitcavage
February 18, 2009
Dear Bill, Judy, Kyle and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. We know your pain and sorrow. Our hearts go out to you. Ryan is in our prayers.
Sincerely,
Ed and Kathy Kubeck
Sue (Kubeck) and Joe Vitcavage
Eric and Susan Kubeck
Stacy Kubeck
MAJ James Gafney
February 18, 2009
To the family and friends of Ryan Richards:
One evening, while out with some friends in Frankfurt, Germany, some soldiers were getting there picture taken by their buddy. I stopped to let them finish and continued walking. Ryan stopped and and said, "Jim?" I was stunned! He was on his way to Desert Storm as a scout. We were both privates, excited about the war. We chatted, shook hands and I wished him luck. That was the last time I saw him. When people get talking about what a small world it is, I always tell that story. I have repeated it dozens and dozens of times over the years, to include just the other day while driving the streets of Baghdad.
I am sorry I didn't get to know him better as a fellow soldier, father and friend.
Everytime I tell that story, I will think of him in a different light.
I wish the Richards family the best.
Joan Gordon
February 18, 2009
Dear Judy and Bill and Family,
I can only remember the happy times with Ryan. I know of the sad times but he always made everyone happy when he was around. I can only imagine the pain that you are feeling at this time, but please know that our thoughts and prayers will always be with all of you.
Love Joan
Jennifer Gordon
February 18, 2009
Mr and Mrs Richard,
Our family is saddened to hear of your loss. We are reminded of all the good times we shared with your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We hope that in the days to come your sorrow will be replaced with fond memories of Ryan.
Love, Joan and Jennifer Gordon, Kim, John, Emily and Evan Adamowicz
Eric, Donna, Lizzie, Maddie & Georgia Cook
February 17, 2009
To All the Richard Family & Friends,
It is with sad and heavy hearts that we say "until we meet again" to our dear friend and brother in Christ, Ryan. Words aren't enough to take away the grief that is felt by everyone whose life was touched and changed forever by knowing Ryan. Regan, Taylor & Kyle we love you always and forever. Bill, July, Kyle and Maureen, words cannot express how sorry we are for the loss of Ryan.
Love, hugs & blessings,
Temre Dolezal
February 17, 2009
I couldn’t help but love him like a brother when it came to the fierce love that he had for his children. Those closest to him, and the entire Richard family are in our family’s thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Lori & Adele
February 15, 2009
Dear Judy, Bill, Taylor, Regan, Kyle, and family - We are so very sorry for your loss and hope that memories of good times will find their way into your hearts and bring you comfort. We never had the pleasure of meeting Ryan, however, if his children are indeed a reflection of him then having met them we can see that he was a loving and spirited soul.
As you face the challenging road ahead, do not forget that we are but a hundred yards away and would be privileged to help in any way you need. Our prayers are with each and all of you, always.
Amanda Keller
February 15, 2009
Ryan, you were one of the strongest people I have ever met and it is that strength and your memory that will stay with me always. I hope you found peace. I love you.
Kristine Nicklas
February 14, 2009
Regan, Taylor, Kyle, Bill, Judy, Kyle, Maureen, and Friends,
Please know that many share your sorrow… My wish is that your memories bring you comfort… While mourning the loss of Ryan, please know that the souls inhabiting eternity are blessed by his company… You are all in my thoughts and prayers….
Blessings and Peace,
Kristine
“Death is nothing at all; I have only slipped away into the next room; I am I and you are you; whatever we were to each other, that we still are. Call me by my old familiar name; speak to me in the easy way which you always used; put no difference in your tone; wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we shared together. Let my name ever be the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without effect, without the trace of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever meant; it is the same as it ever was, there is unbroken continuity. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner. All is well.” ~ Henry Scott Holland, Canon of St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.
Betty Colwell, Jill & Alison Champion
February 14, 2009
Very sad to learn that Ryan is not with us now. We were moved by his tender love for his children. Won't be easy on them as they loved their Dad so much. As a former schoolmate, Alison sends a great big hug to Regan & Taylor. You are in our thoughts and prayers for the days ahead. May the provision and peace of God be very present.
Dick & Deb
February 13, 2009
To Ryan's Family: He was a man of spirit, generosity and love. Many people admired him and enjoyed his friendship. We were all blessed to have a few moments of his life interact with ours.
Ryan loved you all so much. Keep the memory of his smile and laughter close to your heart, it will help ease the distress you feel with his passing. He will always be watching over you.
Mary Rhees
February 13, 2009
Oh, Ryan. I am so sorry you have left us. Nobody can come close to matching that perfectly goofy grin of yours. Your children, parents, brother and sister-in-law will be in my prayers. Until we meet again...
John D
February 13, 2009
You left this world with 3 beutiful children, and you will be missed by them and many more. It always breaks my heart to see such a loss like this. All of my prayers for your family during this trying time.
Isabela Metzger
February 13, 2009
Ryan,
you were a great man. When you first came into my life i thought wow i REALLY do have to look up to you!Those precious babies you brought to this world will always and forever be loved by so many. i know you will now be in peace.
i love you forever and for always, Isabela
Matthew Mclean
February 13, 2009
Ryan,
You have been a huge part of my life for many years. You put three beautiful children on this earth, which i will love for the rest of my life. You have tought me how to throw a football, shoot a basketball, but most of all you have tought be how to be a friend. You were an amzing motifator, and had confidense in others. You are an amazing christian, and i know that you are in a very happy place. I miss you so much, and you will always have a place in my heart for you. I love Ryan. Thank you for being the best friend that anyone could ask for.
Shawna Galaviz
February 13, 2009
My heart broke when I heard the news. Ryan and I shared a connection as parents and my heart goes out to those he left behind.
February 13, 2009
Ryan and his children were a part of our lives for several years and while we hadn't seen one another of late, Ryan, Regan, Taylor, and Kyle were never far from our hearts. Rest in peace, friend - we know that you and God will be watching over your family from above.
Scott, Amy, Alyssa and Serena Rex
Alan Cauble
February 13, 2009
Ryan,
There are so many memories that come to mind... I will miss those calls when you would ask, "How 'bout my UCONN Huskies!?!" Most of all, I'll remember the example you set as a loving, caring and committed single father to Regan, Taylor and Kyle. I love you, Brother!
Gail Moffet
February 12, 2009
Dear Ryan,
I wlll never forget our friendship, both professional and personal. I will miss you terribly. You were the first person I meet in AZ from my home town Connecticut. As I try to accept this lose, it is sometimes hard for all of us to understand how God could separate a wonderful person/parent from his friends and children that need and depend on him so much! Some things we will never understand, but try to accept, maybe you were needed somewhere else to touch others. You were an amazing person that will never be forgetten. My prayers go out to your family, especially your children that love you so much!
Taylor Richard
February 12, 2009
Daddy
You have left us and our hearts are broken. Please be at peace and know that we will be okay.
Love forever, your daughter Taylor
Robyn Witt
February 12, 2009
Ryan,you were always dear to the kids and I's heart. I had such respect for you as you tried to raise Regan, Taylor and little kyle. Your smile and generosity to us over the years touched our lives and blessed us. We will miss you always. May God grant your soul peace and rest. And may His angels guard and protect those precious kids.
Mary Gumkowski
February 12, 2009
My heart goes out to Ryan's children and his family for their loss. My prayers will be with you. I met Ryan back in 2003 as a business contact. He was great guy, and a great father.
Da'Mone Wilson
February 12, 2009
Ryan I will miss you. I remember your willingness to always help, smile and love of your children. A friend whom I shared much with and always kept in my heart along with Regan, Taylor, and Kyle. Thanks for the memories...Peace my friend.
Sandie B
February 12, 2009
Ryan had a wonderful spirit - and touched many in all the years. My heart hurts that one more didnt make it....i know he is free now.
Fritz Teetsel
February 12, 2009
I will miss your friendship.
Remi McLean
February 12, 2009
We are so sad about Ryan. He was our favorite friend. Being the Godparents to his kids, they have all had a special place in our life. We wish Judy, Bill, Kyle, Maureen, Regan Taylor and Kyle, happy memories and peace through the sadness. We love you Ryan, may God's light always shine upon you, and may you always be at his side.
Unknown Soldier
February 12, 2009
The soldier stood and faced his God
Which must always come to pass...
He hoped his shoes were shining
Just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, you soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?"
The soldier squared his shoulders
and Said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't...
Because those of us who carry guns
Can't always be a saint.
I've had to work most Sundays
And at times my talk was tough,
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the streets are awfully tough.
But, I never took a penny
That wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills got just too steep,
And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear,
And sometimes, God forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.
I know I don't deserve a place
Among the people here...
They never wanted me around
Except to calm their fears.
If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand,
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand."
There was a silence all around the throne
Where the saints had often trod...
As the soldier waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God,
"Step forward now you soldier,
You have protected….I can tell
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."
Darren Ricci
February 12, 2009
My Brother in Arms, My Brother in Faith, My Good Friend:
Ryan came into my life 4 years ago with a contagious smile, an enormous heart, unconditional friendship, and a bond of brotherhood. I will miss my friend who shared his walk through life, his family, and his battles with me. Sua Sponte and Semper Fi my brother.
“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Tara Metzger
February 12, 2009
Peace be with you Ryan. You will be remembered and missed by many. Tara & Isabela Metzger
Matthew 5:4
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Meryl Anziano
February 12, 2009
Dear Judy and Bill, My deepest sympathy to your family. I cannot imagine your sorrow. You are in our prayers. May God bless all of you.
Kathi Glennon
February 12, 2009
Dear Judy and Bill and family
I am so sorry about hearing of Ryan's passing. My heart goes out to all of you..Miss you Judy! take care and be strong. Your friend always Judy...Sincerely, Kathi Glennon/Newington, Ct 06111
Brent K
February 12, 2009
I only met Ryan a couple of times when we crossed paths in business and he was a pleasure to talk to. I knew first hand of his role as a single parent. Having been raised in a single parent household I have nothing but respect and admiration for Ryan and the many sacrifices he made in that role. It's heart breaking that his children will now miss out on having him there to raise them.
Patti Walker
February 12, 2009
I will miss Ryan tremendously. He brought such joy to my life this past year, helping me through my own personal transitions. Good-bye, my Distraction. Be at Peace.
Love, Patti
Kyle Richard
February 12, 2009
I will miss my brother; but I know that after all the pain that he had in life that he is finally at peace. Kyle
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