WOLCOTT – It is with our deep and profound grief that the Chimera-Locklear family of Wolcott would like to share the unexpected passing of Richard D. Chimera; beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and dearest friend who meant so much to many. Rich died unexpectedly Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at Waterbury Hospital.
Rich was born Sept. 4, 1983, in Waterbury to his mother, Deborah McGrath. Rich was a devoted husband and best friend to his wife for more than 16 wonderful years and a selfless and passionate father to his children.
Rich was a very hard worker, whose family and friends knew they could count upon him to do almost anything. Rich often showed up out of the blue to help his family and friends with odd jobs and projects. He worked for the past 12-plus years at Prospect Pools, where he was a valued and dedicated employee who will be dearly missed by his family there.
Rich was cherished and will be deeply missed by his wife, Stephanie; his children, Christian, Angelina, and Damon Chimera, as well as his godson Matthew Giamattie; his mother Deborah McGrath; his brothers, Thomas McGrath and Chase Swoap, and his sister Jaimie Cook; as well as his in-laws, Christopher and Dawn Locklear, sister-in-law Melody Locklear and his two brothers-in-law, Joseph Rich and David Locklear.
He also leaves his cousin Dennis Normandin; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and cherished friends who were his extended family.
Rich was predeceased by his uncle Raymond McGrath, whom he looked up to as a father figure.
Rich was hard working, humorous, and a man of rugged exterior at times yet he was passionately demonstrative with his love. Being of humble, difficult beginnings, Rich was tenderhearted to many children with disadvantaged circumstances, and was a faithful giver to various children’s charities.
Rich and Stephanie met in high school yet life did not bring them together until years later when they knew beyond a doubt that they were meant for each other. Although they hoped and wished for a full lifetime together, their short time was filled with love, and laughter.
He was sure to bring his ethic of hard work, respect, and dedication to his family and bless them with the assurance that he loved them unconditionally and beyond measure.
Rich was immensely proud of his children and their accomplishments, and was a passionate father supportive of their dreams. They faced the obstacles in their path with hands and hearts united and supported each other along the journey.
May Rich’s strength and love always fill their hearts with comfort. His nightly ritual was a kiss to each of his family members and the words “Yo te amo, Tu mi corazón” (I love you, you are my heart).
Rich, you will be forever loved and missed.
Friends and family were invited to share time, love and memories with Rich’s family during visitation on Saturday, July 20, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Road, Prospect. A celebration of life service was to immediately follow at 4 p.m.
Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral home is honored to care for Rich and his family throughout this difficult journey of grief, and invites you to share your favorite memories, photos, words of comfort on Rich’s tribute wall at prospectmemorial.com.
