Richard was born June 9, 1946 in Hartford, CT to Enia Carboni Pardi and Frank Pardi. He passed away on September 22, 2019, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 73 years old. Richard is survived by Carol, his loving wife of 49 ½ years. He leaves his devoted son Chris (Kimberly) Pardi; sister Delores Spadaro; brother Frank (Lorraine) Pardi; sister-in-law Barbara (Gary) Morell; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Richard was a member of Police Athletic League as a child. He sang at many events in Connecticut, at 16 he recorded two records at RCA Studio in New York. He met his future wife in December 1965. He graduated from Wethersfield High School in 1966. Richard worked 29 years for the State of Connecticut. He retired in 1995 as a Captain-paramedic-crash fire fighter from Bradley International Airport. He was instrumental in organizing the paramedic unit and was one of the first 100 paramedics in the state. He was an active member of the Somers Fire Department where he rose through the ranks to become Chief before retiring in 1995. In Rich’s earlier years he enjoyed drag racing. He was member of The Ocala Flying Club and flew RC remote controlled planes. He also had a large collection of milk bottles from Connecticut. He enjoyed playing softball throughout his retirement. The family wishes to extend their gratitude and thanks to Buffalo Crossing Rehab Staff and Compassionate Care Hospice and Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute. In lieu of flowers the family recommends memorial donations may be made to Compassionate Care Hospice, 900 Main Street # 208, The Villages, FL 32159 or St. Jude’s Hospital. The family has no plans for a memorial service at this time. Arrangements entrusted with HIERS-BAXLEY Funeral & Cremation Life Event Center, 352-775-7427. Sentiments may be left online at www.hiers-baxley.com.