Newington Obituary: Richard Statchen, 88

Richard "Dick" Statchen, 88, a.k.a. "Mr. Wonderful" of Kensington formerly of Newington, died peacefully at home.

Dick was born in New Britain on December 19, 1927 to John and Kathryn (Mader) Statchen. Dick was very proud of his military service, joining the Merchant Marines during WWII; he served in the Philippines, New Zealand, New Guinea and the Suez Canal. Dick loved to tell stories of his Military service, especially when his ship was hit by a Kamikaze Bomber in the South Pacific. Dick worked at Tuttle & Bailey, American Bazaar and retired from New Britain Machine as a Purchasing agent, he also was a founding member of Holy Spirit Church in Newington.

Dick's hobbies consisted of woodworking and he was quite an accomplished artist, although his greatest pride and joy was his very large extended family.

He leaves behind four sons and their wives to cherish and share his stories, Richard Statchen and Patrice of Kensington, Michael Statchen of Canton, Mark Statchen and Brett of Bolton, Ned Statchen and Liz of Unionville; ten grandchildren, Richard, Samantha, Kevin, Michael, Sean, Bridget, Nicholas, Laura, Daniel and David, ten great-grandchildren, Eric, Jasmine, DJ, Hannah, Ben, Olivia, Emmy, Nathan, Eli and Jack. He was predeceased by the love of his life, Joann, four brothers, Henry, John, Carl and Bob, five sisters, Irene, Florence, Betty, Ruth and Gloria.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Franciscan Home Care Nurses, CNA's and Sister Catherine Mary but especially to his caregiver, Faye (his angel) for their loving care during his last months.

The wake will be held on Sunday, July 10, from 4-7 PM at Newington Memorial, 20 Bonair Avenue, Newington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, July 11th directly at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Spirit Church, 183 Church Street, Newington. Burial with military honors will follow immediately afterwards at West Meadow Cemetery. Reception will follow to celebrate his life and share our many memories.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association (in memory of his wife, Joann), 2075 Silas Deane Hwy., Suite 100, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.

To share a memory with his family, please visit us at www.newingtonmemorial.com.