Richard F. Donnelly, age 69, of Milford CT, passed away unexpectedly in his home in VT. Richard was born in Bridgeport to Rita and the late John Donnelly, and was a life long Stratford resident graduating in 1968 from Stratford High School. Following his graduation he served in the US Army in Vietnam where he received numerous citations including the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Richard was the former owner of Donnelly Appliance Service in Stratford. In addition to his mother, Richard is survived by two sisters, Gail Donnelly of Stratford and Jill Calvanese of Punta Gorda FLA, nephews, Matthew, Justin (Samantha), Nathan (Emily), Joshua and Seth Calvanese and a cousin Norman Bessette. Richie was predeceased by his wife Deborah. Those desiring may make memorial donations in Richie's name to a charity of their choice. At the request of the family all services will be private.