Richard Ernest Schmelter, “Dick”, 85, of Vernon, went to be reunited with his beloved wife, Edwina, on Tuesday May 16, 2017, on his 85th birthday. Born May 16, 1932 in New Britain, Ct, Dick was the son of Wanda and George Schmelter. Dick grew up in New Britain with his two brothers Arthur and Donald. He served his country in the United State Air Force from 1952 to 1956. He was stationed in Germany and Birmingham, AL and left the Air Force as a sergeant. Dick was very proud to have served his country. Upon leaving the service, Dick, traveled west and lived in Burbank, CA with his cousin before returning back to CT where he entered the sheet metal trade. Dick worked from 1956 to 1994 with a few of the local sheet metal companies, most notably, Hartford Roofing. Dick was a proud member of the Local 40 Sheet Metal Workers Union. The United States Library of Congress and the original Foxwoods Casino were two jobs he was very proud to have worked on. Once retired, Dick enjoyed going to “The Local” with other retirees to work on copper projects where they would make a host of different ornamental pieces, such as bird houses, candle holders, planters to name a few. Dick and his wife Edwina raised their family in Vernon, CT. Dick was part of Vernon Little League as both a coach, in the minor and major leagues, and the purchasing agent. The biggest joy in his life has always been his family. Dick enjoyed going to his children’s baseball, softball, football and hockey practices and games. Dick leaves his beloved daughter, Lynn Schmelter of Vernon. His beloved sons, Keith Schmelter and his wife Colleen Schmelter of Vernon, Wade Schmelter and his wife Amy Schmelter of Ellington and Glen Schmelter of Ellington. He leaves five precious grandchildren, Cameron, Brianna, Erin, Kevin and Steffie. Dick was not the most vocal of personalities but he was very caring, compassionate and witty. His wit was evident with notable quotes, referred to as “Dick-isms”, which would always get a smile and laugh. Dick had a love of the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing as a young man. He also loved his sports and enjoyed watching the Yankees, Giants, Celtics and UConn Basketball, especially the women’s team. As of October of 2016, Dick resided at the Village at Buckland Court in South Windsor. The Schmelter family would like to thank all the staff at the Village for their compassion, respect, dignity and care that they bestowed on Dick, especially Josh. Relatives and friends may join the family at the Burke-Fortin Funeral Home, 76 prospect street, Rockville, CT on Thursday, May 25 2017 from 5pm to 8pm. A funeral home service will be the following day, Friday, May 26th at 10:30AM at the Burke-Fortin Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Vernon, CT. For online condolences please visit www.pietrasfuneralhome.com
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