Obituary of Richard C. Tyler

Richard C. Tyler, 86, of Eastford, CT died, December 9th, 2017 at Westview Healthcare Center in Dayville, CT.  He was born on November 30, 1931 in Union, CT son of the late Harry J and Cora (Lawton) Tyler. He was a graduate of Eastford Elementary School and Woodstock Academy.
Dick was a loving husband, father and grandfather. After a devastating gas explosion that seriously injured him in his late 20s, Dick recovered and went on to work for 25 years at Stafford Printers in Stafford, CT.  During his career he rose from Expeditor to Head of Retail.  Perhaps his favorite job came at the end of his long work life, when he started working at the Eastford Elementary School as a Janitor and then in Maintenance.  He was a living role model for the children that no matter what physical challenges you might have, you can still be happy, productive and independent.  He loved all the kids there and they loved him back.
As a young man Dick was active with the Grange and played the accordion for their Square Dance nights.  In later years, despite his challenges, he loved sailing, miniature golf, shuffle board, bowling and working on his extensive landscaping at home.  He and his wife spent many years traveling, visiting the Canary Islands, the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii and many trips around the USA.  But his greatest love was for his family.  He loved spending time with his daughter and grandson, brother and sisters in laws and also his nieces and nephews.  He helped care for his elderly father and older brother for many years. 
In May of this year, he lost his beloved wife, Ruth.
He is survived by his only child, daughter Debbie Bishop, also son-in-law Charles Bishop, grandson Matthew Sweeney, brother and sister in law Robert and Margaret Tyler, sister in law, Shirley Lamothe and his nieces and nephews.
A Graveside Service is Sunday, December 17, 2017 at 12:30 PM at Grove Cemetery, Eastford, CT.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Eastford Independent Fire Co. #1,    
6 Westford Road, Eastford, CT 06242, would be appreciated.
Share a memory at www.smithandwalkerfh.com