Obituary of RICHARD D. LACERENZA

Richard D. Lacerenza, a reputable member of the Stamford community for nearly seventy years, entered into eternal rest Monday March 2nd, 2015, at home surrounded by his loving family. Richard was born on November 9, 1930 in Stamford Connecticut to his parents, the late Anthony J. Lacerenza and Anne Pannone. He was predeceased by his loving sister, Sally Ann Geremia in 2003. A graduate of St. Basils Preparatory School, Class of 1948, Richard attended New York’s American Academy of Embalming and Mortuary Research, Inc. following High School, graduating in 1949. He served in the United States Army from 1950-1952, and was stationed in France during the Korean Conflict. Richard began his career as a funeral director in 1949. At age 18, he was the youngest licensed funeral director in the state of Connecticut. He continued to preside over the business he loved- Lacerenza Funeral Home, a Stamford landmark started by his late father in 1926, right up until his death. Richard’s heart and soul were always with the families he and his family had the privilege of serving throughout the years. His kindness and calm reassuring manner set the standard for funeral care in this area. He was renowned for his generosity and concern for the people he served, whether prominent citizens or simply those in need. In 1947, he met his loving wife, Angela “Chickie” Tosches. They married in 1955, and celebrated their Sixtieth wedding anniversary this past January. Together, Richard and Chickie had four daughters, the pride of their lives. Together with their husbands, they gave Richard and Chickie fourteen grandchildren. Patti, and her husband Bob Robustelli, and their children Kristen Delmonico (husband Barry), Laura Romano, Brettlyn Robustelli; Luke Robustelli (wife Kristen) and Amanda Price (husband Jason). Sally, and her husband Michael Macari, and their children Richard Macari, Jenna Cingari (husband Tommy), David, Jordan and Joey Michelle Macari. Toni Lacerenza, and her children Jerry Jr (wife Amy), Danielle and Nick Macari. Tracey Lacerenza, and her children Candace, Richard, and Tony James Terenzio. Richard and Chickie have three great grandchildren, Giana Macari, Harper Belle Cingari and Juliana Macari. He is also survived by two sonin-laws, Jerry Macari and Richard Terenzio. Throughout his life, he found boundless joy in the company of his two beloved dogs, Diamond and Buddy. Richard was an active, though quiet, supporter of many local sports teams including Stamford Bocce, National Lione Little League, Stamford Babe Ruth and Recreational Softball programs. He supported numerous organizations, churches, and people in a lifetime of service to the community. He leaves us with a legacy - a life’s work and passion that were the beneficiary of all his energy. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday March 7th at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 37 Schuyler Avenue in Stamford, CT. Richard will be reposed at the funeral home that bears his name, Friday March 6th, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friends are encouraged to contribute in his memory to OPIN- the Outreach to Pets in Need, at the Stamford Animal Shelter, 201 Magee Avenue. To leave a condolence message, please visit www. lacerenzafuneralhome.com