Richard "Richie" Michael Connors

Richard Michael Connors, known affectionately as “Richie,” passed away at the age of 88 on Monday, September 9, 2024. Born in the Bronx, NY to William and Elizabeth Connors, Richard was one of eight children. His parents and siblings preceded him in death.

At the age of 17, Richard proudly volunteered to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, serving his country with honor. Shortly following his service, fate led him to Lucille Flanagan, whom he met at a soda fountain shop. Instead of joining his fellow Marines for a night out, he chose to visit the shop, where he became instantly enamored with Lucille. In a moment of clarity, Richard told her he would marry her someday, and on their first date, he confessed his love. Their love story blossomed, and they enjoyed 59 beautiful years together, raising three daughters: Diane, Maureen, and Theresa. Lucille preceded him in death.

Family was at the heart of Richard’s life, and he loved to bring people together. He loved vacationing with his family, hosting barbecues, and creating movie theater in the backyard.

After his military career, Richard embarked on a distinguished career as a skillful machinist working within the newspaper industry and spent the last 30 years of his career with The New York Times. His innovative thinking and dedication earned him recognition, notably for fixing a persistent issue with the newspaper’s printing presses—a testament to his problem-solving skills and work ethic.

Richard’s love for life was evident in his many passions, including golf, bowling, travel, and movies. He was also deeply committed to his community, volunteering for years as an usher at Sacred Heart Church and as a Meals on Wheels volunteer. As a member of the Knights of Columbus, Richard exemplified the values of service, faith, and brotherhood.

He is survived by his three daughters; Diane (Bill) McElroy, Maureen (Clifford Jr.) Rice, and Theresa (Ernie) Chiapuzzi, his six grandchildren; Nicole (Ken) Murphy, Christopher (Crystal) Chiapuzzi, Michael (Robin) Chiapuzzi, Brittany (Brian) Scheaffer, Melissa (Dan) Burns, and Clifford (Gabriela) Rice III, and 11 great-grandchildren; Jacob Chiapuzzi, Mason Chiapuzzi, Makenzie Murphy, Delaney Burns, Audriana Chiapuzzi, Madelyn Muphy, Dylan Burns, Penelope Chiapuzzi, Mia Murphy, Clifford Rice IV, and David Rice. He is also survived by two of his sisters-in-law, Rose Connors and Marilyn Ribosh. Richard’s warmth, humor, and his gift for stortelling will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was a man devoted to his family, his faith, and his country.

A viewing will be held at Kay’s – Ponger Funeral Home at 635 E Marion Ave in Punta Gorda from 1-4 PM and 6-9 PM on Thursday, September 12, 2024. A mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church located at 211 W. Charlotte Ave in Punta Gorda on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 1:00 PM.