Richard Fasano

Richard Fasano, 61, of Madison, CT, died Saturday (October 22, 2011) after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born August 23, 1950 in New Haven, CT to Albert and Donatella (Ferrie) Fasano, who he leaves behind. Richard, an Eagle Scout, grew up in Cranston, RI with three brothers, Ronald, Raymond and Robert, and one sister, Regina Goulding, all of whom still reside in Rhode Island. Richard attended Cranston High School West where he met Elizabeth Reynolds (Fasano), and the two married in 1972. He spent six years in the National Guard. A University of Rhode Island “Ram,” Richard received a music education degree and settled into the Madison School District where he began his 38-year career as a band instructor at Dr. Robert Brown Middle School and Daniel Hand High School. He was the proud leader of “That Tiger Band” for 19 years and the district music coordinator. He received his master’s degree at CCSU and his Sixth Year Professional Degree at SCSU. Richard and Elizabeth also started their family together in Madison. In addition to his wife, Richard leaves behind three children, Erin Holsworth and her husband William, daughter Isabella of Monroe, CT; Kerry Fulchino and her husband Jeffrey, son Connor and daughter Clare of Monroe, CT; and Ryan Fasano and his wife Sarah of Chicago, IL. A dedicated educator, Richard worked hard to teach his students about music and the rewards of discipline. He impacted many young lives and his efforts were recognized in 2005 when he was honored as “Teacher of the Year” for the Madison School District. Richard will also be remembered as a husband and father who simply enjoyed being with this family. He and Elizabeth loved taking their children on many adventures including Disney World and Yankees games, and he especially loved cruising in the Caribbean. In addition to his accomplishments, Richard’s family wishes that loved ones remember his fun sense of humor and his dedication and love he had for his job and the students of Madison. Richard’s favorite joke – “I used to play the trombone, but I let it slide.” A scholarship fund for Daniel Hand High School students has been established in Richard’s memory. Donations for the scholarship may be made to The Madison Foundation, PO Box 446, Madison, CT 06443. Calling hours will be at the Swan Funeral Home in Madison on Tuesday, October 25 from 4 to 8 p.m. A memorial service will be held at St. Margaret’s Church in Madison on Wednesday, at 10 a.m.