Richard Walter Zorena

Richard Walter Zorena, 85, of Woodbridge, CT, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 8, 2025.  He was the loving husband of Carmela (Persano) Zorena of 63 years.  His quiet devotion and caring for Carmela exemplified true love.

Born in New Haven, CT on November 25, 1940, Richard was a son of the late Walter and Helen (Zaniewski) Zorena. A beloved father and “Poppie” to his many granddaughters, Richard enjoyed spending time with family, working in his garden and cooking delicious holiday meals. He spent many years employed by Picker X-Ray working in many hospitals in the Tri-State area.   He was the proprietor of SH Moore in New Haven and later worked in accounting at the New Haven Board of Education.

Richard is survived by his sons Richard J. (Joan) Zorena, James Zorena, Michael (Raffaella DeGruttola) Zorena and Joseph (Amanda) Zorena.  He is also survived by his brother Brian and sister Beverly Keller and his cherished grandchildren Courtney Wiss and her husband Alex Wiss, Lauren Zorena, Clare Zorena, Amalia Zorena, Alivia Zorena and Isabella Zorena, as well as his many beloved nieces and nephew. In addition to his parents, Richard was predeceased by his kind sister-in-law Nancy Zorena. 

Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 19, from 9 am to 11 am at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12 noon in St. Barnabas Church, 44 Washington Avenue in North Haven, followed immediately by burial in All Saints Cemetery.   

Richard appreciated all plants and flowers: in his memory, contributions may also be made in Richard Zorena’s name to Special Olympics MA, specialolympicsma.org. 

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