Obituary: John ‘Jack’ J. Farrell, 81, of Middletown

From Biega Funeral Home

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Father and Pop Pop (Pops) Jack Farrell, 81, of Middletown, formerly of Portland, Thursday February 16, 2017 at Middlesex Hospital.

He was born in Middletown, the son of the late William Harold and Madeline May (Walsh) Farrell. Before his 23 year career with the State of Connecticut as a Public Works Assistant Project Manager, Jack owned and operated numerous businesses including a construction development company, restaurants and night clubs continuing in a three generation family tradition. For several years Jack worked part time as a Night Counselor at The Reid Treatment Center where he used his life's experience to listen, aide and support people struggling with addiction.

In addition to his wife Barbara, he is survived by his sons, Billy and John Farrell both of Middletown; his daughters, Mary Beth Farrell of Middletown, Peggy Heil and her husband Norb of East Hampton, Katie Farrell of Malden, MA, and Barbara “Beeper” Farrell of Wethersfield; his brother and Sister in Law Harold and Sheila Farrell of Cromwell; two grandchildren, Jakkelyn Dickey and her husband Keith of Killingworth and Norb Heil, III of Portland. Also, two great grandchildren, Judah and Reed Dickey. As well as many nieces and nephews. Pops also leaves behind many grand dogs especially his faithful sidekick Omar Francis Farrell.

A perpetual student of life, he was always evolving, always accepting and always in the pursuit of complete understanding of people from all walks of life. He believed "there is a reason they put erasers on pencils" and "you can't put an old head on young shoulders."

Jack will always be remembered as leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion to his family and loved ones. An avid sports fan, and advocate of all things true, good, and beautiful.

Those who wish to make memorial contributions to The Jimmy Fund, c/o Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168.

To leave online condolences, visit Biega Funeral Home here.