Obituary: Eugene C. Riotte, 93, Of Wallingford

WALLINGFORD, CT — (From Wallingford Funeral Home): Eugene (Gene) Charles Riotte of Wallingford died peacefully at home on February 8th, 2023, at the age of 93. He was cared for in his final days by Barbara, his loving wife of 62 years, and his devoted children.

Gene spent his life as a Wallingford and High Street resident and gave tirelessly of his time to the town and church. He was born on November 16th,1929, to Joseph and Anna (Griffin) Riotte. He was the 3rd of 4 children and grew up surrounded by aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He attended Wallingford schools and graduated from Lyman Hall High School in 1947.

After graduating from high school, Gene joined the Army in 1950 during the Korean War. He served in the K20EAMC unit as a company clerk. He was stationed overseas at the Royal Airforce Base in England.

While in the service, Gene traveled to many countries, including Japan, Belgium, France, Ireland, and the Netherlands. He was honorably discharged from service at the rank of Corporal and moved back home to Wallingford.

When back in the states, Gene worked at American Cyanamid for over 30 years until his retirement. During that time, he married Barbara (Dobratz) Riotte in 1961 and went on to have 5 children and later he was also able to enjoy the blessings of 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Gene dedicated his life to the service of others. Most notably, he was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Catholic church in 1978 and served as parish Deacon at the Most Holy Trinity Church in Wallingford until 2020. During his time as Deacon, Gene touched countless lives and humbly answered the call of God to do all that was asked of him. A foundation of this call was Gene’s continuous fight to honor and respect all life, especially the lives of the unborn. He was an active member of Birthright and attended the March for Life events in Washington, DC.

In addition to Gene’s service in the church, he believed in giving back to the community and marginalized individuals. In this work, he served on the Wallingford Board of Selectman for many years and was Treasurer of the Democratic Town Committee. His outreach included mentoring incarcerated inmates in the Cheshire prison system and helping teach strategies to prevent re-entry. Gene and his wife also became associated with Highland Heights and brought children into their home to help provide them with a family environment during difficult times.

Other acts of volunteerism included being a Grand Knight of the Pinta Council 5 of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the Father’s Club at Sacred Heart Academy in Hamden, CT. and the Parent’s Club at Xavier High School in Middletown, CT. He served a term as Treasurer at the Albert Schweitzer Institute and served on the Board of Directors of Franciscan Healthcare as clergy. The list of other volunteer endeavors is endless, and Gene embodied what it means to live a life of service.

Outside his community work, Gene was an avid reader and artist, and could tackle any crossword puzzle. He was surrounded by countless friends and neighbors, who, in his final years, were a constant presence and source of comfort in his life.

Gene is survived by his wife, Barbara (Dobratz) Riotte, his son Eugene Charles Riotte, Jr. and his wife Lynn, daughters Mary Riotte and her husband Sean Fennessy, Ann Richo and her husband Gregory, Katherine Riotte, and Margaret Grimsby and her husband Samuel. He is also survived by grandchildren Kate, Jack, Erin, Riley, Maximilian, Alexandra, Rachael, William, Justin, Emma, Samuel, Leo, Ella, and Grace, as well as 2 great-grandchildren, Jacks and Weston. A sister, Anna Mae Mezzapelle, also survives him. Gene is pre-deceased by his parents and brothers, Robert and Gerald Riotte, as well as many cherished friends and family.

Gene will receive a Christian service and burial. Visiting hours will be at the Wallingford Funeral Home on Monday, 2/13/23, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Mass will be Tuesday, 2/14/23 directly at the Most Holy Trinity Church at 12:00 pm. Interment following mass will be at St. John Cemetery.

In place of flowers, donations can be made to Birthright of Greater Meriden, CT. and the Most Holy Trinity Church. Gene left an indelible mark on all who met him, and his love and grace were endless. All will miss him.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Wallingford Funeral Home here.