Obituary of Richard Dehnel

Richard Dehnel 62 of East Haven passed away peacefully on May 13, 2016 surrounded by his family. He was born November 11, 1953 in New Haven to Carl and Myrna (Nettleton) Dehnel. Richard is survived by his three loving children, William Dehnel of Tacoma, WA, Amanda Schaperow (Alani) of East Haven, Peter Dehnel of East Haven and five grandchildren who are adored, Erica Frazier, William Dehnel Jr., Benjamin Richard Roy Dehnel, Alonzo Schaperow and Callie Ann Kramer. Richard is also survived by his sister, Karen Bagnoli (Salvatore) of East Haven, former wife, Merilee (Dimock) Dehnel and numerous nieces/nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Alan Dehnel. A dedicated family man, Richard was a 6 year veteran of the United States Air Force. He had a deep love of travel and for twenty years he was a professional Truck Driver traveling across the nation. His greatest joy however, was spending time with family, friends, and loved ones. Laughing was his life. He loved making jokes, teasing in a friendly manner with all those around him. He spent hours playing with his children and grandchildren and if anyone needed him, he was always there. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, May 19, 2016 from 4 to 6:30 PM at the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home (Clancy Funeral Home), 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. At 6:30 PM, the family will begin their tribute to Richard followed by US Air Force military honors.