Richard Robert Clairwood

Born to life March 8th, 1949. Born to eternal life, January 30, 2026. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Robert and Mary Clairwood and was a life-long resident of Norwich. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Patricia Quinn Clairwood, his brother Robert Clairwood of Norwich, his two loving daughters, Elizabeth Natola and her husband Daniel Natola of Boston, and MariMeg Clairwood, MD and her husband Michael Flannery of Southington. His sons-in-law were the sons he never had. “Papa” was dearly loved by his grandsons, Quinn and Raymond Flannery. Patty’s extended family, the Quinns, were his close and loving family as well.

Richard was a proud graduate of Norwich Free Academy in 1967, the vice president of his class every year, and the organizer of all class reunions. He was a graduate of Tufts University School of Engineering and received a graduate degree from Rensselaer. He worked as a Senior Mechanical Engineer at Electric Boat for 42 years. Rich was a devoted member and former co-president of the Mountain Laurel Ski Club, a member of the Italian Men’s Club, the Formosa Yacht Club of Mystic, and served on the board of Slater Museum. An active man, he loved to ski, kayak, bike, hike and travel. He was a man of great intelligence, integrity, and kindness.

Rich fought his cancer diagnosis valiantly because he truly loved life, adventure, and spending time with his close friends and his beloved family. His was a life well-lived and he will be missed beyond measure.

Calling hours will be at the Church and Allen Funeral Home on Sachem Street in Norwich on Tuesday, February 3rd at 5pm – 7pm.

There will be a mass at Sacred Heart Church, 52 West Town Street, Norwichtown, CT at 11am on Wednesday, February 4th.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Sacred Heart Church, 52 West Town Street, Norwich, CT 06360 or the Slater Memorial Museum 108 Crescent Street, Norwich, CT 06360