Richard Cardillo Sr.

Richard Cardillo Sr., affectionately known as Rick, Dad, and Poppy, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 73 following a brief but aggressive illness at St. Francis Hospital.

Rick was born in Hartford, Connecticut, on January 21, 1953, to William J. Cardillo Sr. and Dolores M. (DeGruttola) Cardillo of Wethersfield, Connecticut. He was a longtime resident of East Hampton, Connecticut, where he lived for more than 50 years. Rick graduated from Wethersfield High School in 1971 and began his career working in masonry with the family business, Cardillo & Sons Company. He later became a firefighter with the City of Hartford Fire Department, proudly serving his community for more than two decades. Where he retired due to becoming the recipient of a liver transplant, one of his proudest accomplishments. Giving him twenty seven more years with his loved ones. 

Rick is survived by his devoted wife, Kathleen Cardillo of East Hampton, Connecticut; his children who he’d go to the ends of the earth and back for, Richard Cardillo Jr., Leah VanBlaricom and her husband Timmy VanBlaricom Jr., Bethany Cardillo (Jason Tupper), and stepdaughter Martina Martucci. One of Rick’s greatest joys was being a grandfather to his beloved grandchildren: Chelsy, Andrew, Anthony, Kydance, Hailey, Camron, Taylor, Jordan, Jayla, Savannah, Mackenzie, and Cali. He cherished every moment spent with them and took great pride in watching them grow. 

Rick found happiness in life's simple pleasures. He loved spending days at the beach, listening to the rhythmic crash of the waves, winters spent in Florida, and treasured the time he shared with his lifelong best friend, Andy Dinardi, and his favorite cousin, JJ. He was an exceptional cook who delighted family and friends with his famous chicken cutlets, meatballs and sauce, and antipasti. Always eager to stay active and engaged, Rick enjoyed following the stock market and spending time day trading.

A dedicated member of the East Hampton Senior Center, Rick rarely missed a Thursday gathering, where he enjoyed playing cards and sharing stories with friends. He was known for his generosity and willingness to help others, often providing transportation for fellow members to and from the library. Rick also made a lasting impact through his involvement with SMART Recovery in Hartford, Connecticut, where he served as a mentor and source of encouragement to people from all walks of life.

Rick will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering generosity, quick wit, and deep love for his family and friends. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and strength to those around him, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. 

A celebration of life will be held to honor Richard Cardillo in the coming weeks.