Richard L. Pacelle Sr.

Richard L. Pacelle, Sr. died on May 27, 2022 at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in West Haven after a brief illness. His beloved wife of 68 years, Patricia (Kledaras) Pacelle passed away in September 2021. He is survived by his son Richard, Jr. (Fenton Martin), daughters Kim (Dennis) Johnsky, Wendy (Neil) Hathaway, and son Wayne Pacelle (Lisa Fletcher); three grandchildren: Danika (Chris) Hodges, Robert (Lauren) Hathaway, and Corey Hathaway; a step grandson Craig Martin (Chiara Bariviera) and three great grandchildren Cora and Charlie Hodges and Penelope Hathaway. He is predeceased by his parents John and Esther Masseli Pacelle; his only sibling John Pacelle Jr. and a step grandson Russell Martin.

Richard spent the bulk of his career teaching at both Milford and Jonathan Law High Schools and coached at both. He was named head football coach at Milford High School in 1968 and later became Athletic Director at Jonathan Law.

After his retirement, he worked at the New Haven Testing Laboratory, owned by his brother-in-law Stanley. He also served as Regional Coordinator for high school volleyball in Connecticut. Richard was an avid reader, political advocate and sports fan who enjoyed playing golf and tennis well into his eighties. He enjoyed and appreciated the staff at the VA Hospital and appreciated all the wonderful care he received throughout his years.

A graveside service, with military honors, will take place on July 30, 2022 at 10 o’clock at Orange Center Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fisher House Foundation at VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Fisher House (135F), Attn: Amanda Salthouse, Fisher House Program Manager, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven CT 06516.

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