Richard Rozanski, Sr., 83, Sikorsky Retiree

Richard Rozanski, Sr., 83, passed away early Thursday morning, September 12, 2013, at his home.  He was the husband of Barbara (Benz) Rozanski.

Rich was born on October 2, 1929 in the Union City section of Naugatuck, CT to Stella (Marianna Stephania) (nee Kryzanowska) and Juli (Julian) Rozanski.  Their youngest child, he was predeceased by his sisters, Mrs. Palmer (Jenny) Brick, Lucy Rozanski, and Mrs. Benjamin (Irene) Rykowski and by his brothers, Tadeusz Rozanski and Edward Rozanski.

A lifelong area resident, Rich attended Hop Brook School in Naugatuck and later Naugatuck High School. He always had a keen interest in working with his hands and while attending Naugy High - received training at the (WWII) War Production Training Center at the Waterbury Button Shop.  While attending that program, he was provided training on operating many machines and learned many needed skills required to support the war effort.  He subsequently transferred to Bullard-Havens Technical High School in Bridgeport where he completed his formal secondary school education.

After completing his studies, Rich joined the Army.  He served as a tank commander with the U.S. Constabulary in post-war Germany.  He served his entire Army career in Germany through both the Berlin Air-Lift and Nuremberg Trials. After leaving the Army, Rich used the GI Bill to attend Embry-Riddle School of Aviation in Florida where he earned his FAA Airframe & Engine Mechanics license. He worked briefly for Pratt & Whitney and Transocean Airlines before beginning a lengthy 30+-year career at Sikorsky Aircraft.  At Sikorsky, Rich worked in the Quality department for much of his career. While there he was associated with many cutting- edge developmental aircraft that was a source of much personal pride.

Rich was an avid outdoorsman throughout his life that enjoyed hiking, hunting and fishing.  When he was younger, he boxed for a time through the Naugatuck YMCA.  Two of his passions were aviation and motorcycles.   After the Army, Rich learned to fly and for a time owned a Piper J-2 airplane and several motorcycles.  He was a former member of both the Nutmeg Flying Club and the Naugatuck Valley Riders Motorcycle Club.  He was also active in Scouting with his boys and assisted in various capacities – including service as Scout Pack treasurer for a period of time.

Rich’s greatest joy was his immediate family.  He married Barbara Benz on June 25th, 1955.  They were married for more than 58 years.  They settled in Beacon Falls in the 1960s, building their home on several acres of land. Besides his wife Barbara, he is survived by his sons: Richard Rozanski Jr. of Seymour, CT and Donald and daughter-in-law, Christine Rozanski of Woodbury, CT.   He is also survived by his 4 grandchildren: Lynn Rozanski of Guildford, England; Jesse Rozanski of Naugatuck, CT, Nicole Rozanski of Waterbury, CT; and Timothy Rozanski of Plainville, CT.  In addition, several nieces and nephews survive him.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2013, with a memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, 1006 New Haven Road, Naugatuck. Burial will be in Grove Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  Friends may call today at the Alderson Funeral Home of Naugatuck, 201 Meadow St. from 6 to 8 PM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

For further information, to send an email of condolence, or to light a memorial candle, go to www.aldersonfuneralhomes.com.