Richard Burgarella

Richard "Rich" Burgarella, a devoted public servant and protector of the Connecticut community, passed away on December 2, 2024 at the age of 59. A former Connecticut State Trooper and Guilford Police Department officer, Rich dedicated his life to ensuring the safety and well-being of others.

Born in New Haven, CT on May 12, 1965, Rich exhibited a strong sense of duty and commitment from a young age. After graduating from West Haven High School and the University of New Haven, he embarked on a career in law enforcement. Rich first served as a Guilford police officer and later joined the Connecticut State Police serving in Troop F as Trooper First Class and Resident Trooper of Deep River, eventually being promoted to Sergeant Trooper under Troop E, where he continued the mission of protecting and serving the community he loved. Over the years, Rich earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and citizens alike for his professionalism, integrity, and unwavering dedication to justice, oftentimes earning outstanding recognition including a Meritorious Service Award and three Unit Citation Awards.

Outside of his law enforcement career, Rich had a passion as a horologist, making, repairing, and designing clocks and watches. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR racing, NFL games, and participating in marksmanship shooting.

Rich is survived by his mother, Linda Buccieri and her husband Peter Buccieri of Conway, SC; his father, Rich Burgarella of Seminole, FL; his sister, Kim Rapuano of Branford, CT; his brother Rob Parkin and his partner, Bryan Poisson of Marblehead, MA; and his brother, David Parkin of Washington, DC. He was predeceased by his beloved nephew, Anthony Rapuano of Branford, CT.

To honor Rich’s life and legacy, visitation will take place Sunday December 8, from 3 to 6 pm at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. On Monday morning, please meet directly at St. John Vianney Church of St. John XXIII Parish where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Richard Burgarella’s memory to one of two charities: the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, www.nleomf.org, and the National Fallen Officer Foundation, www.nationalfof.org.

Rich will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his courage, compassion, and dedication to making the world a safer and better place. His legacy of service and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.

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