Richard James Barbera

He was born in Danbury, CT and lived there until last year when he bought his dream property of forty-six acres in Sherman, CT. He was an avid gardener and a wonderful cook. He would grow enough to fill his freezer for the winter and more to share with friends and family to enjoy as well.

Before Rich retired, “Mr. B.” was a guidance counselor in New Fairfield High School for 30 years. He was a coach and a mentor to so many students. He was involved in the track program, weight room, and the creation of the ALC program to help students who needed alternative learning. He was loved by his students and se still kept in touch with some of them. He was someone who truly wanted to make a difference.

In addition to gardening, Rich enjoyed woodworking and he made some beautiful furniture for his house.

He is survived by his older sister, Sandra Hawthorne and his younger brother, Frank Barbera. He also leaves behind his nieces, Christie and her husband Matt Hoey and Amanda Barbera and his nephews Michael Barbera, Devin Hawthorne, and Justin Hawthorne and his wife Chrissy and their children, Anna and Lila.

The family will receive friends at the Green Funeral Home, 57 Main Street, Danbury, CT, on Saturday, December 2, 2017 between the hours of 12:00pm and 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association, 2080 Silas Deane Hwy, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.