Richard F. Holden

Richard Frederick Holden, formerly of Wallingford, departed this life peacefully on March 15, 2020 at St. Francis Hospital after a long and well-fought battle of health issues. He was the beloved husband of Deborah H. Holden.

Richard was born on January 11, 1941 in Gloversville, NY to Frederick and Dorothy Holden.

Richard attended Kimball Union Academy (KUA) in New Hampshire to further develop his passion, skill and love for basketball, baseball and tennis in addition to academics. He would often speak the importance of balance — balancing both the sports and academic worlds in the pursuit of greatness. Following graduation, he proudly attended Syracuse University where he studied business and was a member of the basketball team. Richard was also an active brother of the Delta Upsilon (DU) Fraternity. Over the years, Richard would reflect back on his time at both KUA and Syracuse with the widest smile, the best memories and many stories to share.

Following his time at Syracuse, Richard made the decision to join the U.S. Army. He served his country as a Commissioned Officer and was Aide-De-Camp to the youngest Brigadier General at the time. Richard served his country with great honor and received many accolades. His son Tyler and daughter Ashley honored his legacy by dedicating their collegiate careers to further Veteran Employment and Empowerment. Tyler and Ashley gave their father a wristband years back as a representation of their efforts. Richard wore it everyday up until his very last breath on Earth. To this day, both remain involved in the military community at their respective employers — something that Richard deeply cherished.

Richard was an Investment Advisor for his entire civilian career — first in Syracuse, NY and later in Connecticut.

In addition to his wife, Richard is survived by his daughters Kimberly (David) and Kristen and Michael of Minnesota. Richard and Deborah share two children Tyler and Ashley both of Connecticut. He also is survived by four grandchildren Derek, Lindsay, Lukas and Annaliese, four granddogs Kingston, Magnolia, Theo and Finn; a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Richard was predeceased by his parents and sister Carol Ann.

Wherever he traveled, Richard would be the first to start a conversation or create long-lasting friendships. He believed in the power of sharing wisdom and stories to those whose path crossed his. He also stood by the notion service above self and wholeheartedly believed in giving back to his community. Richard was a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Wallingford for 23 years and was named a Paul Harris Fellow this past summer. He was actively involved in many of Rotary’s efforts but most notably the Amber Alert ID Program and Celebrate Wallingford.

In the spirit of giving, Richard’s family is asking for donations to be made to the Rotary Club whose mission is to bring people together to provide humanitarian service and advance goodwill around the world. Donations can be sent to the Wallingford Rotary Club at The Wallingford Foundation, Wallingford Rotary P.O. BOX 213 Wallingford, CT 06492. If you choose to give online, please donate to Rotary International on Richard’s behalf at https://www.rotary.org/en/donate. From Richard and his family, we thank you.

To leave a message of remembrance and find updates on a Celebration of Life which will be announced at a later date, please visit www.BaileyCares.com.

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