Richard C. Barillari, 67, of Newtown, devoted husband, loving father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on November 14, with his family by his side after a five-year battle with cancer.

He was born on May 18, 1954, in Bridgeport, Conn., and graduated from Bullard Havens Tech in 1972 with an electrical background. At that time, he was the youngest in the state of Connecticut to receive his journeyman license. Rich had a lifelong love for baseball that began during his high school days, and he was later drafted by the Phillies but declined the offer because he wanted to start a family.

He met the love of his life, Patricia, the year he finished high school. They got married in 1976 and later raised two amazing children, Richard and Jennifer, during their life together in Shelton then Newtown. Rich began his professional career as an electrical systems manager for 18 years at Bridgeport Hospital. He then pursued a dream with a good friend, Dom Cisero, to open a Dunkin Donuts franchise that they expanded to numerous locations over 12 years. His entrepreneurial spirit continued as he opened up The Firehouse Bar and Restaurant in Sandy Hook with his son, Richie. He also helped both his children build homes, and his love for building led to a 15-year career with Pavarini Construction as a project manager.

Rich consistently gave back to his community, where he coached youth sports, hosted many pregame pasta parties, and donated to countless organizations. In 1999, he was named The Newtown Bee Sportsman of the Year after he successfully cochaired a campaign to fully fund the installation of field lights and the concession/press box building at Blue & Gold Stadium. He was an avid Yankees fan, enjoyed countless trips to the casino, and loved nothing more than spending time with his family, his pride and joy.

Besides his wife Patricia, he is survived by his children, Richard P. Barillari and Jennifer Kelley (her husband Patrick); and his grandchildren, Reagan and Declan. He is also survived by his loving cousin, Gloria Bender; sister-in-law, Cindy Field; his nephew, Ryan Barillari; and many other loving family members and friends.

He is predeceased by his mother, Lorrice; his father, Dominick; and his brother, Dominick.

Calling hours are Wednesday, November 17, from 4 to 7 pm, at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, November 18, at 11 am, at St Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Newtown.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Regional Hospice, regionalhospicect.org, or Newtown Scholarship Association, newtownscholarship.org.