Richard Joseph DeLorge Sr.

Richard Joseph DeLorge Sr.

August 14, 1939 – September 28, 2023

On September 28th, 2023, Richard Joseph DeLorge Sr. took his final sleep and went to the hands of God.  Richard was born on August 14th, 1939 to the late Leo Joseph DeLorge and the late Winifred Mildred (Murry) Watrous.

Richard grew up and lived most of his life in the Norwich area.  Attending Norwich schools. He enlisted in the United States Navy at the peak age of 17 where his Aunt Betty Rogers signed for his release into the service.

He was proud to be serving his country.  After his time in the service, he came back to the Norwich area and that’s where he met the love of his life Linda, and they married in 1973.

Richard became a skilled craftsman and carpenter and there was nothing he couldn’t build.

He was passionate about many things.  Community charities became something he timelessly participated in.  From Toys for Tots, feeding the homeless or endless hours of sporting concession stands.

He was a dedicated husband, Father and most of all Papa.  Richard was a proud lifetime member of the Norwich VFW Post 594 where many years he served as commander.

His days and life were always about family in which created his happiest moments.

Richard leaves behind his wife Linda (Conroy) DeLorge of 50 years.  Their three children, daughter Shannon Simpson and husband Jody Benjamin.  Son Richard DeLorge Jr. and his significant other Melissa Clinton. Son Jason DeLorge and wife Heather Chester. Daughters Michele Factor and Nancy Bissonn. Former Daughter in law Melissa Miller and was predeceased by his former son in law Glen Simpson who we are sure met him at those heavenly gates.  

He also leaves behind his pride and joy of grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Corey Simpson, Justin Simpson, Matthew Simpson, Andrew DeLorge, Tyler DeLorge, Lisa Ann DeLorge, and Matthew Benjamin. His great grandchildren Paisley Simpson, Kinsley Simpson, Lilly Hewitt, and Elijah Hewitt.

Richard had a sibling’s crew, who will miss him eternally. Sandra and Frank Barber, Leo and Margie DeLorge, Fred and Sandy DeLorge, Deborah and Mike Cormier, Leon and Crystal DeLorge, Jeffrey and Debbie DeLorge, Jacqueline DeLorge, Desire Williams, Susan Dionne, Everette Watrous, also sister-in-law Wanda Morgan and Raymond Turbarge.

Richard was predeceased by two sisters Janine DeLorge and Mary Ann Watrous.

He also leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Calling hours will be Friday October 6, 2023 from 5 to 7 PM at the Gagne-Piechowski Funeral Home 490 Voluntown Road Jewett City, CT. 

A Memorial Service will be 10 AM Saturday October 7, 2023 at the Gagne-Piechowski Funeral Home.

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