Richard D. Chimera

It is with our deep and profound grief that the Chimera-Locklear family of Wolcott would like to share the unexpected passing of Richard D Chimera. Beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and dearest friend who meant so much to many. 

Rich died unexpectedly Wednesday, July 10th 2024, at Waterbury Hospital. Rich was born September 4th 1983, in Waterbury to his mother, Deborah McGrath. Rich was a devoted husband and best friend to his wife for over 16 wonderful years and a selfless and passionate father to his children. Rich was a very hard worker; who’s family and friends knew they could count upon him to do almost anything. Rich often showed up out of the blue to help his family and friends with odd jobs and projects. He worked for the past 12+ years at Prospect Pools where he was a valued and dedicated employee who will be dearly missed by his family there.

Rich was cherished and will be deeply missed by his wife, Stephanie, his children, Christian, Angelina, and Damon Chimera, as well as his godson Matthew Giamattie, his mother Deborah McGrath, his brothers Thomas McGrath and Chase Swoap, and his sister Jaimie Cook as well as his in-laws Christopher and Dawn Locklear, sister in-law Melody Locklear and his two brother in-laws Joseph Rich and David Locklear. He also leaves his cousin Dennis Normandin, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and cherished friends who were his extended family. Rich was predeceased by his uncle Raymond McGrath who he looked up to as a father figure.

Rich was hard working, humorous, and a man of rugged exterior at times yet he was passionately demonstrative with his love. Being of humble, difficult beginnings; Rich was tender-hearted to many children with disadvantaged circumstances and was a faithful giver to various children's charities. Rich and Stephanie met in high school yet life did not bring them together until years later when they knew beyond a doubt that they were meant for each other. Although they hoped and wished for a full lifetime together, their short time was filled with love, and laughter. He was sure to bring his ethic of hard work, respect, and dedication to his family and bless them with the assurance that he loved them unconditionally and beyond measure. Rich was immensely proud of his children and their accomplishments, and was a passionate father supportive of their dreams. They faced the obstacles in their path with hands and hearts united and supported each other along the journey. May Rich’s strength and love always fill their hearts with comfort. His nightly ritual was a kiss to each of his family members and the words “Yo te amo, Tu mi corazon” (I love you, you are my heart.) Rich, you will be forever loved and missed.  

Friends and family are invited to share time, love and memories with Rich’s family during Visitation on Saturday, July 20th 2024 from 2pm-4pm at Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Rd., Prospect Memorial. A Celebration of Life service will immediately follow at 4pm.

Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral home is honored to care for Rich and his family throughout this difficult journey of grief and invites you to share your favorite memories, photos, words of comfort on Rich’s tribute wall  on this website.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard D. Chimera, please visit our floral store.