Richard Michael Gingras

Richard Michael Gingras passed away on July 26, 2021, after a long illness. He was 65 years old. He had been a patient at the Hospital for Special Care since January 2020. Prior to that, he resided in the Plantsville section of Southington.

Richard is survived by his wife, Cynthia, stepdaughters Eleanor Claffey of Prosper, TX and Emily Pierce of Murphysboro, IL as well as grandchildren Victoria and Peter Claffey, both of Prosper TX. Richard is also survived by his brother James Gingras. Richard was predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Anna (Sowa) Gingras.

Richard was a graduate of Southern Connecticut University. He worked as a professional photographer and then in commercial real estate and mortgage lending for several companies. Ultimately, he successfully started his own mortgage company. He retired in 2005 due to illness.

Richard was a general aviation pilot in his early years, “soloing” at age 16. He maintained his pilot license well into adulthood. He also enjoyed attending and photographing drag races in the region. Richard was an avid baseball fan, following the Mets in recent years. He loved his dogs and became a supporter of animal rescue organizations.

Visitation will be held at the DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St., Southington, on Monday, August 2, 2021, from 9-10 am, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at Mary Our Queen Church, 248 Savage St., Plantsville at 10:30 am. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, New Britain.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to American Humane, at www.americanhumane.org, in Richard’s name. For online condolences and directions please visit, www.dellavecchiasouthington.com