Richard J. Tangari

Richard J. Tangari, fondly known as Rick, was a beacon of love, wisdom, and handiness. Born on August 14, 1955, in Norwich Connecticut, he lived a life that was an embodiment of positivity and resilience, until his peaceful passing in Ashford on August 25, 2023. Rick was the beloved husband and soulmate to Susan Tangari, their love for each other showed the world what true love really is. Rick was the proud father of Sarah Tournas and Jason Flaherty, and father-in-law of Derek Tournas and Jennifer Flaherty. He was the cherished grandfather of Lily Holewa, Ashlynn Tournas, Sean Flaherty, and Megan Flaherty. Rick was the dear brother of Paula Beebe, Joseph Tangari, Lawrence Tangari, and Judith Murphy, the loving son of the late Joseph and Eva Tangari, and son-in-law to the late Norman and Teresa Galipeau, whom he will now be reunited with in heaven. 

His family was the core of his existence, and he showered them with unwavering love and support. Rick was a man of many talents, but his passion for mechanics led him to a fulfilling career at Tony’s Garage. Beyond his professional life, Rick was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was a family man through and through, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. He found immense satisfaction in fixing things around the house, a testament to his handy nature. His family could always rely on him to repair anything broken, be it a leaky faucet or a faulty appliance. 

His home was his castle, and he took great pride in maintaining it. Music was another passion that brought joy to Rick’s life. He loved listening to music and playing his guitar, often filling his home with melodies that brought comfort and happiness to his family. His love for his dog, Thor, was unmatched. Their bond was a beautiful testament to Rick’s compassionate and loving nature. Rick’s life was a testament to the power of positivity, resilience, and love. 

His wisdom was a guiding light for his family and friends, his love a comforting blanket, and his handiness symbolized his dedication to improving things. He lived his life with a sense of purpose and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. In remembering Rick, let us celebrate the life he lived and the love he shared. Let us remember his wisdom and love for his family, let us remember him as a man who was always ready to lend a helping hand, a man who loved unconditionally, and a man who lived his life with purpose and joy. 

Rick was not just a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother; he was a beacon of positivity, a source of wisdom, and a symbol of resilience. Rick will be dearly missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him most. He would not want us to live on with sadness in our hearts, but would want us to cherish the happy memories we all shared together.

The Family will receive friends and relatives on Saturday, September 2nd. 2023 from 3-5:00 PM at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT 06226.  

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