Ellington Woman's Widower Expresses Gratitude for Support

An Ellington man has posted a touching expression of thanks on social media for support given his family following the killing of his wife just before Christmas.

Richard “Rick” Dabate wrote a lengthy post on Facebook regarding the death of his wife, Connie, who was found shot to death in their home on Birch View Drive on Dec. 23. The couple has two sons, ages 9 and 6.

Dabate wrote:

“As most of you know by now, Connie has been taken from us far too early. The volume of loving friends, family and acquaintances who we saw at services is a testament at how much she touched the lives of others. Many questions, unanswered, but we are all doing our best to move forward, as impossible as it seems. We try to stay strong, for the boys, RJ & Connor need me now more than ever.

Both my family and Connie’s have been SO incredibly helpful and loving to those boys. Our friends, and neighbors have also been showing an amazing amount of support. To all of you, I say, “Thank you”, and Connie thanks you.

She was also much better than I about communication on social media. While I reserved it for irrelevant current event talks, jokes, geek rants, etc., she used it in a more, “meaningful” way. Although, we all know she was pretty solid in the “Jokes” department.

It’s going to take me some time to get a rhythm here on FB, but I’m going to use it how Connie used the “Caring for Connor” page. Not only did she post important information about Connor’s medical journey, but it was therapeutic for her. Many times, as she shared items, she helped someone else, or someone helped us.

I’m going to turn to my Facebook family quite bit. Connie and I always balanced each other out. Now without that balance, I’m worried. I just want to make all the best possible decisions for RJ & Connor. There were afternoons that she came home from work and said, “You really let the kids go to schooling like that?”. Apparently my matching skills need improvement.

I’m sure she’s up there guiding us along the way as we try to heal. I’ll reach out more as soon as I’m able, and myself and our family Thanks you for all your thoughts and support.”

Police are still investigating Connie Dabate’s death; no arrests have yet been made in the case.

Photo courtesy of Carmon Funeral Home