Fred Stafford
Mystic — Fred Russel Stafford, 90 years young, died March 18, 2021. He was the cherished son of Gladys Stafford and Fred T. Stafford. Russ (as he was known to many) was born in the middle of the pack of nine children and was delivered by his father’s hand in the farmhouse in Niwot, Colo., Nov. 7, 1930. He attended Niwot Elementary School and later graduated from Longmont High School in 1948. His favorite memories of that time were walking to school with his sister Doris, sharing and playing and just being a kid.
Russ entered the U.S. Navy in 1948, trained for and excelled in the U.S. Navy Submarine Service. He, along with his shipmates, contributed through many deployments and missions which helped ensure the freedoms and liberties that we enjoy as Americans today. He was part of the greatest generation and we all owe them a debt of gratitude. In his 20 years of service, he served aboard seven boats. “Cream rises to the top” and he proudly retired as senior chief engineman aboard the USS Henry L. Stimson. After his service, he was employed at General Dynamics, Groton, Quincy, Mass.. and West Milton, N.Y. His expertise and unique skill set helped to further the excellence and enduring quality of the Submarine Force. Fred was an active member of the Groton Sub Vets and had many other affiliations. The Submarine Force Veterans Memorial was extremely well maintained on his watch, and his ability to grow just about anything contributed to the pristine beauty of the memorial.
He was married and predeceased by Frances Mullin, with whom he has a son, Michael. Fred loved Fran’s children Paula, Pam and Dan.
Fred joins his predeceased mom and dad; as well as sisters, Katherine, Doris, Peggy and Marie; as well as brother Chuck. He leaves behind siblings, Stan and Denny, as well as his beautiful sister Jeanie; seven grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.
More than anything he loved and adored his wife Dorothy “Dolly.” They were peas in a pod. Outrageously gifted gardeners, they dominated the blue ribbon competitions at the Ledyard Fair. At the end of the day, he was truly “best in show.” He loved Dolly with all of his heart.
He was also grateful for the excellent compassionate care he received from all of the nurses, aides and all of the other remarkable angels that do so much for so many at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers or cards, please hug your loved ones and consider a charitable donation to your local food bank or home heating assistance charity.