- Date Of Birth: August 23, 1950
- Date Of Death: December 5, 2018
- State: Connecticut
Richard L. Engelhardt, 68, of Middletown, died on December 5, 2018, following a long illness. An extraordinary husband, father, and grandfather, Richard leaves a legacy of humor, friendship, and joy.
He was born in New Haven on August 23, 1950, the son of Christian and Dorothy Engelhardt of North Haven. After graduating from North Haven High School, Richard earned a degree in Psychology from Tufts University. He achieved a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Connecticut and began a rewarding career as a clinical social worker and family therapist, with practices in Southington and Middletown. He was an adjunct instructor at Southern and Central Connecticut State Universities, Wesleyan University, and UConn. He retired in 2017 after 40 years of counseling patients.
In 1976, Richard married Susan Rashba, of Hamden. They moved to Middletown, where they raised three children and enjoyed 42 happy years of marriage. Richard was an amazing family man. He and Susan created a joyful home where all birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones were celebrated. He was beloved as Papa to his six grandchildren, whose lives he filled with laughter and song.
Richard was a skillful musician able to play many instruments, excelling at the guitar and trombone.
He was a respected member of the communities where he lived and worked.
In addition to Susan, Richard is survived by his children and their spouses – Jason and Katrina Engelhardt, of Madison; Matthew and Megan Engelhardt, of East Hampton; and Katie and Jared Pinkus, of Cheshire; grandchildren Zoe, Kayla, Silas, Hannah, Norah, and Lydia; a brother, George Engelhardt, of Hamden; his father-in-law, Norman Rashba, of Hamden; several nieces and nephews; and countless friends.
Richard’s family will hold receiving hours on Saturday, December 8, from 4-6 p.m.
