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NORWALK, Conn. -- Richard Vincent Bortolot Sr., 94, died on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
Bortolot was born in Fall River, Mass., on May 8, 1920, to the late Raymond and Jean Bortolot. He was a resident of Norwalk ever since the age of 5, when his family relocated here.
For over 70 years, Richard was the loving and devoted husband of Victoria Pinto Bortolot, his high school sweetheart. They had been together as a couple for over 76 years. An alumnus of Norwalk High School Class of 1939, Richard was an outstanding athlete who he excelled in many sports, particularly in basketball .
Bortolot retired in 1985 after a 43-year career at the Nash Engineering Co., where he had many lifelong friendships that lasted well into his retirement. He remained active throughout his retirement as treasurer of the Southport Square Dance Club, where he taught square, round and ballroom dancing. Richard also worked for many years as an Election Day moderator and received special recognition from the secretary of state and the Connecticut Legislature for his efforts.
He was an honorary life member of the Knights of Columbus Council 46 and was a founding charter member of the Oak Hills Park Authority. He served as a volunteer fireman at the East Norwalk fire station and was fire chief for the Nash Engineering Fire Department.
He is survived by his children, Carole Sementini of Redding, Richard V. Bortolot Jr. of Westport, Victoria J. Bortolot of Bethel, Raymond Bortolot of Redding and Jeffrey Bortolot of Norwalk; 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a son, Gary W. Bortolot, brothers Victor and Roland Bortolot, and a sister, Jane Bussing.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at St. Jerome Church, 23 Half Mile Road, Norwalk. Interment will be at St. John Cemetery on Richards Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Richard’s name may be made to St. Jerome. Magner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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