Renardo Ricci

CHESHIRE -Renardo A. Ricci, 90, passed away on July 4, 2012 at Masonic Home in Wallingford.

A longtime resident of Cheshire, he was born in New Haven, Connecticut on November 21, 1921 the son of the late Americo and Arduina (Roberti) Ricci.

He was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Catherine DiMezza Ricci, Brother Alterio Ricci and sister Florence Ricci Marottoli.

He is survived by his daughters Gail Ricci and husband James Cooke of Wallingford, Melanie Pivirotto and husband Larry of Cheshire, grandson Richard Cooke of Glastonbury and several nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Boardman Trade School in New Haven with a degree in Machine Engineering, tool and die. Upon graduation in 1939 he accepted the position of machinist at High Standard Company of New Haven producing gun and machine components in support of World War II. During the war he proudly served in the Continental Air Command, Ground Observer Corps.

After the war in 1947 he took the position of Corrections Officer at, what was at that time, the Cheshire Reformatory. It is here where he spent most of his adult career until his retirement in 1987. During his career he was instrumental in the development of the Connecticut Prison Furlough Program for Youths.

He will always be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and avid fan of UCONN Women's basketball. He will be missed by many friends in Cheshire and his family.

Arrangements - Calling hours will be held on Friday July 13, 2012 from 4 to 8 p.m. at The Alderson Funeral Home of Cheshire, 615 South Main Street, Cheshire. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday July 14, 2012 at St. Bridget Church at 10:00 a.m. Friends are asked to meet directly at church. A private burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, his family asks donations be sent in his name to Masonic Charity Foundation of Connecticut, P.O. Box 70, Wallingford, CT 06492.