Griffin, Sr., Richard H.
Richard Henry Griffin Sr., of Avon, passed away peacefully on May 1st, 2022, surrounded by Family at the age of 85. Richard (Dick, Red, Griff) was born in “Griffinville”, Farmington to Myrtle Griffin (Tallmadge) and Henry Griffin. He graduated from Canton High School in 1955. Soon
after, he received his teaching degree from Central Connecticut Teachers College and masters from the University of Hartford. Dick taught Industrial Arts for over 35 years at Lewis Mills High School in Burlington. He was a master craftsman and his love for woodshop was passed along to many students throughout the years and he touched their lives in many ways. At age 7, he survived the Hartford Circus fire and that influenced his decision to become a firefighter. Dick was a founding member of the West Avon Volunteer Fire Department and instrumental in leading the merger with the Avon Volunteer Fire Department. He served in a number of leadership positions including, Captain and Deputy Chief and later as Director and President for a number of years. Dick was a true professional and looked upon as a leader and mentor to many in the department for over 37 years. His passion for firefighting inspired other friends and family members to serve.
Dick's love of sports began early on and continued throughout his life. He was an accomplished athlete in
high school and captain of the football team. He was an avid golfer and a loyal Red Sox fan. Dick was always involved with his kids and grandkids sports and never missed an opportunity to watch them play. In addition to sports, he had a love for the outdoors. He was a member of the Connecticut Rose Society and cherished his roses along with his vegetable garden, tending to them daily.
He is survived by his loving wife Elinor (Firnhaber) of 60 years and their children; Pamela Redman and her husband Jeff of West Hartford, and Richard Griffin Jr. and his wife Sue of Avon. He has 5 grandchildren that he adored and that will deeply miss him. Ashley Barrick and her husband John, Kelsey Conrad, Matthew
Griffin, Kaylan Conrad and Stephen Griffin. He is predeceased by his cousin Ray Griffin, whom he considered a brother. In addition, he leaves behind his extended family, including an aunt, numerous cousins, brother and sister in laws, and nieces and nephews.
Dick will be truly missed, but his huge heart and kindness touched so many and he will never be forgotten. The family would like to thank the staff at Amberwoods of Farmington for their kindness and passionate care in his final days. His family will receive friends Friday, May 6th from 4-6 PM at the Carmon Funeral Home & Family Center, 301 Country Club Road, Avon. A Celebration of His Life will be held Saturday, May 7, 2022 at the West Avon Congregational Church, 280 Country Club Road, Avon at 10 am. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation in support of his grandson Matt. https://netrf.org/ .For directions or condolences please visit www.carmonfuneralhome. com