Richard David Ardizoni

Richard David Ardizoni passed away unexpectedly on January 16, surrounded by his loving family. He was 73 years old. Born in Springfield on April 15, 1952, he was one of 3 children born to the late Robert and Muriel (Nims) Ardizoni. He was raised in West Springfield and graduated from West Springfield High in 1970 before earning a degree from Holyoke Community College. Following his education, Richard enlisted in the US Navy for 4 years. He was rightfully proud of his service where he garnered a National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Award while maintaining hydraulic and pneumatic systems onboard the USS Coral-Sea.

After his military service, Richard began his professional career in retail management. He served as a Store Manager & Director for Big Y, Lowes, and Price Chopper. He was a respected leader, overseeing store operations, managing teams, and always caring for his customers. Following retirement, he started a new journey working on his nephew’s rental properties. Richard was a self-taught handyman, he was great at solving problems and enjoyed fixing things that required use of his tools.

Richard and his beloved wife Karyn (McGuire) settled in Enfield, CT 25 years ago. He was truly the life of the party. His hobbies and passions revolved around being outdoors. A lifelong hunter and fisherman, Richard loved being on the lake and spending time with his family at their cottage. He would fly down the ski slopes in the winter and golf with his buddies in the summer, recently completing a dream opportunity to play at Pebble Beach. He was a loyal supporter of all New England sports and he loved going to the movies. Most of all Richard loved traveling with his wife, Karyn, to various Caribbean islands, spending time together with their toes in the sand and cold drinks in hand.

Above all else, Richard’s favorite thing was spending time with his many friends and extended family. Richard will be sorely missed by his loving wife and best friend of 22 years, Karyn; devoted children Christopher Ardizoni & Kristin. Cassandra Ardizoni & Christopher. Daniel Ardizoni. Vincent Ardizoni & Lauren. Samantha Combs & Jason. Hannah Combs & Dan. Grandchildren Ella, Sophia, Jackson, Anthony Richard and Amelia Ardizoni; Sisters Sherie Jonah and Michael. Lindie Dole and Rodney. Nephews Nick, Matt, and Jake Jonah.

Friends may call to pay their respects from 4-7pm on Monday, January 26 at TOOMEY-O'BRIEN FUNERAL HOME.

There will be a memorial service with Military Honors at 9am, Tuesday, January 27 at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. In lieu of flowers and to honor Richard’s support of Veterans and his love of his 7 grand-dogs, donations can be made in his name to America’s Vet Dogs at www.vetdogs.org