Richard J. Ladieu

Richard Joseph Ladieu, 89, of Wethersfield, passed peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026, surrounded by those he loved. Richard is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 63 years, Sandra (Annelli) Ladieu; two adored children and their spouses, Jessica (Ladieu) Colliton and her husband, Charles P. Colliton of West Hartford and Kevin Ladieu and his wife, Mary Ellen Ladieu of West Hartford; four treasured grandchildren, Julia Colliton, Sophia Colliton, David Ladieu and Ethan Ladieu of West Hartford; and his much-loved sister-in-law, Elaine Annelli. He is predeceased by his mother-in-law, Isabella Annelli, whom he loved as a second mother and friend.

Born in Enosburg Fall, Vermont on April 29, 1936, Mr. Ladieu was the son of the late Rhona Wilson and Deforest King and lived most of his life in Wethersfield. He was a 1955 graduate of Wethersfield High School and attended the University of Hartford and Central Connecticut State University. He served proudly in the United States Amy for two years, and also served in the United States Navy Reserve. Richard worked as a merchandising manager for Stop and Shop for many years before eventually retiring from the company.

Richard was an avid angler, took pleasure in traveling, swimming, loved to laugh, was an amazing gardener, talented carpenter and a gifted story teller. He also loved his pets – dogs Rusty, Tamra, Winston and cat, Shadow. He also enjoyed baseball, particularly the Red Sox, basketball as a Celtics supporter and was a faithful Giants fan. He cherished the time he spent with his family above all else, whether it was in the garden, at the beach, fishing or just relaxing in the backyard by the pool. He was a wonderful and loving husband, incredible father, adoring grandfather and loyal friend. He will be remembered for his uncommon kindness, generous spirit, unconditional love and wise guidance. He will be deeply missed by all who met or knew him.

A funeral service is scheduled for Friday, January 9 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of the Incarnation of Christ the King Parish, 544 Prospect Street, Wethersfield. His burial will follow in Village Cemetery, Wethersfield. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s memory may be made to the Connecticut Humane Society or World Central Kitchen. The D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, Wethersfield has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. To share a memory of Mr. Ladieu, please visit www.desopofuneralchapel.com