Robert Joseph Rich

Robert Joseph Rich, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on September 18, 2025, at MidState Medical Center in Meriden after a long and courageous battle with ALS. He was 71 years old.

Born in New Britain, Connecticut on July 7, 1954, Robert was the son of the late Eugene A. and Marjorie R. (Arena) Rich. He graduated from New Britain High School in 1972 and proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1972 to 1975.

Following his military service, Robert pursued his passion for the arts and attended Paier College of Art from 1976 to 1981. A gifted illustrator and airbrush artist, he worked in advertising and commercial illustration from 1981 to 1995. He later became the Art Director for Lauretano Sign Group, where he led with creativity and excellence from 1995 until his retirement in 2019.

Robert had a deep love for the creative process, whether through painting, photography, or studying the beauty of the natural world. He was also an avid squirrel hunter, especially fond of heading into the woods with his .22 rifle. Faith and family were the pillars of Robert’s life. A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, he found strength and peace in Scripture, particularly in the face of suffering.

After his ALS diagnosis in 2017, he never lost his sense of wonder or will to create—adapting to new technology that allowed him to use AI tools with only the movement of his eyes. Despite being bedridden from 2021 onward, he continued to explore and create through his computer, leaving behind a testament to perseverance and faith.

He is survived by his beloved wife of many years, Beverly (Pardee) Rich; his daughter Erin Simone and her husband Daniel; his son James Rich and his wife Allie; and his cherished granddaughters Claudia and Natalie. He also leaves behind his sister Claudia Hojnowski and her husband Edward, along with several loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. Robert was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Douglas Rich.

A visitation for Robert will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Street, Southington. A graveside service will follow at South End Burying Ground, 200 South End Road, Plantsville.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the ALS Association in Robert’s memory by visiting www.ALS.org To leave a message of remembrance or offer condolences to the family, please visit: www.DellaVecchiaSouthington.com

Robert’s life was a powerful example of creativity, courage, devotion, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.