WATERBURY – It is with profound sadness that the family of Richard E. Hamel announces his peaceful passing on Friday, Aug. 23, 2024, at age 83.
He passed away surrounded by his loving family in the comfort of his home. Richard was the devoted husband of Claire (Castaldi) Hamel. Born in Waterbury on June 22, 1941, Richard was the son of the late Eugene and Carmela (Sparano) Hamel.
A proud 1959 graduate of Wilby High School, he served honorably in the U.S. Army before embarking on a successful career in dry cleaning.
In 1965, Richard purchased Town & Country Cleaners in Wolcott, and in 1975, he acquired Allyn’s Dry Cleaners in Watertown, which he operated for more than 50 years with unparalleled dedication to his customers. Richard’s passion for sports, particularly baseball, played a significant role in his life. In 1967, he founded and sponsored his first softball team, Town & Country Cleaners.
Under his leadership, the team achieved notable success, including several Top-10 finishes in national tournaments and multiple state championships. His commitment extended to sponsoring local teams and supporting the development of high school softball programs in Greater Waterbury. A pillar of the Waterbury and Watertown communities, Richard supported numerous local initiatives, including Little League teams, high school scholarships, beauty pageants, and medical research projects.
In 1997, he was honored by the Connecticut Amateur Softball Association for his extensive contributions to the sport, and was inducted into the Softball Hall of Fame and the Gold Circle of Sports. Richard was a man of great integrity, known for his kindness, generosity, and quiet leadership. He always cheered for the underdog and led by example, never raising his voice or speaking a harsh word.
Family was Richard’s greatest joy. He is survived by his beloved wife Claire; his four children, Stephanie Coxon of Middlebury, Lori Sgaglione (Anthony) of Fairfield, Christopher Hamel (Rochelle) of Waterbury, and Nicole Rinaldi (Christopher) of Prospect; and his cherished grandchildren, Dylan Coxon, Ty Coxon, C.J.
Hamel, Victorina Sgaglione, Constantino Rinaldi, Julia Hamel, Caterina Sgaglione, and Gia Rinaldi. He is also survived by his sister Joan Franklin, and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. He was predeceased by his brother Thomas Hamel.
A funeral service will be on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024, at 9 a.m.
from Maiorano Funeral Home, 95 Willow St., Waterbury, with a Mass at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception at 10 a.m.
Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Family and friends may visit with the Hamel family on Wednesday evening from 5 to 8 p.m.
at the funeral home. To honor Richard, the family requests that attendees wear light blue to the wake, funeral, or both. Memorial contributions in Richard’s name may be made to CurePSP (psp.
org). To sign the online guest book or leave condolences, please visit maioranofuneralhome.com.
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