Wethersfield Obituary: Philip Rydziel, Sr., 88

Philip J. Rydziel, Sr., 88, of Wethersfield, beloved wife for 65 years of Helen (Zukas) Rydziel passed away peacefully on June 29, 2016 with his loving family by his side.

Philip was born on May 26, 1928 in Hartford and was the son of the late Michael and Regina (Zelek) Rydziel. Philip was a graduate of Hartford Public High School, graduating at the age of 17. He immediately joined the Navy and served proudly for two years during WWII. Philip was on the SS Missouri when the Japanese signed the surrender.

Philip worked for the E. H. Federal Credit Union as the Assistant Treasurer/Branch Manager where he was affectionately known as “Friendly Phil”. He also was a member of the Quarter Century Club of the E.H. Aircraft Federal Credit Union (now American Eagle); in addition he coached minor league and little league baseball.

Philip was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. A kind and generous man, always ready to help a friend in need and always shared a smile with everyone he met.

In addition to his wife Helen, Philip leaves behind his daughters Barbara Andrasik and her husband Steve of Tewksbury, MA, Joyce Rydziel Swanson and companion Mark Glew of Wethersfield, his son; Philip Rydziel, Jr. and his wife Kelly of Wethersfield. His beloved grandchildren; Christopher Lauria, Amie Lauria, Jessica Andrasik, Stephanie Andrasik, Philip Rydziel, III “P.J.” and his fiancé Helen Sullivan, Amanda Rydziel, Justin Rydziel and John Swanson; his great-grandchildren; Ravyn, Dominic and Sophia. They were the true gems of his heart. Philip will also be missed by his many nieces and nephews. Philip was predeceased by his beautiful infant daughter, Deborah Ann Rydziel. In addition he was predeceased by sisters Rose Wilkosz and Irene Galvin, brothers; Stanley Rydziel Walter Rydziel, Joseph Rydziel and John Rydziel.

Funeral services will begin on Wednesday, July 6th at 9:15 a.m. from the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Boulevard, Wethersfield. Followed by a mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at Corpus Christ Church, 680 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Memorial Park. The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, July 5th from 4-7 at the funeral chapel.

Memorial donations in Philip’s name can be made out to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Center, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101.

For online expressions of sympathy to the family, please visit www.desopo.com.