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Richard Frank Massaro, of West Haven, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on March 12, 2026. He was born on November 15, 1951, to Olga and Peter Massaro.
Rich was the devoted husband of Patricia Sette Massaro; loving father of Dr. Stephanie Massaro and Amy Massaro Gagnon; and beloved “Pop” to his three grandchildren, Grace, Sophia, and Andrew. He was the younger brother of Peter Massaro. Rich loved his brother, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law deeply and cherished the many moments they shared together, filled with laughter, love, and support through life’s challenges.
Rich’s strength, loyalty, and steady presence will be forever cherished by his family and friends. He was someone who showed up for the people he loved in both the quiet moments and life’s celebrations. His greatest joy was spending time with family and friends at Camp Massaro. He especially loved hosting pool parties and welcoming his nieces and nephews, filling summer days with laughter and making sure everyone felt included and enjoyed time together as a family. Family pets often followed him around the yard, never far from his side during those joyful gatherings. His home was a place where family gathered, laughter was shared, and memories were made.
Rich proudly served as Fire Chief with the Allingtown Fire District and devoted his career to keeping children and families safe, reflecting his lifelong commitment to protecting and serving his community. Although his most meaningful and cherished role was “Pop.” He will forever be missed.
His family will carry him in their hearts forever and honor his memory through the traditions he cherished—pool parties, homemade pizza, and the laughter of loved ones gathered together.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, March 18 at 10 am at St. John Vianney Church, West Haven, Connecticut. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Rich’s memory may be made to the West Haven Animal Shelter, West Haven, Connecticut.
To leave an online message for the Massaro family, please visit our website www.westhavenfuneral.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard F. Massaro, please visit our floral store.
West Haven Animal Shelter
7 Collis Street, West Haven CT 06516
Tel: 1-203-937-3642
Web: https://www.cityofwesthaven.com/151/Animal-Shelter