Richard Fanelli February 2, 2023

On February 2, 2023, Richard (Dick) G. Fanelli, devoted husband and loving father of three children, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family at the age of 84.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Florence (Gerard) and Rocco Fanelli. He is survived by his wife Sheila (Noonan); his brother John Fanelli and his wife Joan; his three children, Michael Fanelli, Lisa Shusta and her husband Michael, and Jeffrey Fanelli and his wife Kimberly; and six grandchildren, Elijah, Dylan, Emma, Jonah, Kathryn, and Ryan.

Dick was born on August 6, 1938, in Mt. Vernon, NY, and grew up in Yorktown Heights, NY. He attended Yorktown Public Schools, graduating in 1955. He graduated from Saint Michael’s College in Colchester, VT, in 1959 with an AB in Chemistry. The following year, he married Sheila, whom he met while attending Saint Michael’s. Dick earned his MBA from the University of Connecticut in 1968.

Dick enjoyed a prosperous and rewarding career at Enthone-OMI from 1964 until his retirement in 2000. He worked his way up from Sales Engineer to many years as President and CEO, spending several years living in Illinois while growing the company before returning to Connecticut in 1978. He saw the successful sale of Enthone-OMI to Cookson Group, UK, before his retirement. Dick served as a board member for Ensign-Bickford Industries in Connecticut, N.N. Inc. in Tennessee, and Meltex, Inc. in Japan. He also served on numerous trade-related boards throughout his career.

In his leisure time, Dick cherished time on the water. He also loved music, particularly jazz. He treasured his friendships. But above everything else, Dick’s greatest joy was his family. Sheila and Dick traveled the world together, enjoying and learning about many countries and cultures. They treasured their time living in Belgium as empty nesters and not yet grandparents. Dick enjoyed having his family near him in Connecticut and when enjoying winters in Florida.

Dick’s generosity of spirit came from his profound faith. He was a vital source of strength to all who knew him and will be deeply missed by his family and loved ones. In his final year, he was cared for with incredible grace by his wife, Sheila, and an attentive care team. The family wishes to acknowledge and thank them for their compassion.

The family will hold a small celebration of life at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries. Donations can be mailed to PO Box 804 Essex CT 06426.