Richard “Dick” T. Avritch, 91, of Bristol, passed away quietly at home on Saturday morning, June 1, in the company of his loving son. Richard, known fondly as Dick to his friends and family, was born on August 5, 1932, in Bismarck, N.D., son of the late Thomas and Diane (Durst) Burch. Dick grew up in Riverside, R.I. before moving to Framingham, Mass., and then settling in Bristol, Conn., in 1966.

Dick was a Korean War era Army Veteran. He earned his Bachelor Degree from Bryant College, and his Master’s Degree and additional graduate work at Boston University. He taught high school for several years in Newton, Mass., before becoming a Professor of Accounting at Central Connecticut State University where he taught until his retirement.

Before and during his long retirement, Dick enjoyed many happy hours as an amateur radio operator, and as a member of local radio and computer clubs. He was a member and regular attendee of the First Congregational Church of Bristol. He was a lifelong Red Sox fan who proudly knew where he was when the curse was lifted. Daytime was spent at home with Dory where they together kept a beautiful home and yard surrounded by wonderful neighbors.

Most nights, Dick went out for coffee and conversation with friends, while noontime Saturday was set aside for pizza-time with family and friends. His pool was the place to be for the grandkids in the summertime — where ice cream was a guarantee. He loved his naps but would wake for anyone, and if you asked him how he was he would surely respond “I can’t complain — it doesn’t do any good.” Though he lived a long and happy life, Dick will surely be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Having already lost his beloved wife, Richard is survived by his sons Peter Avritch, Bruce Avritch and his wife Alina, Steven Avritch and his wife Valerie, Matthew Avritch and his wife Christy; his nephew Charlie Wrobelski; stepson Coe “Toby” Hawkins III and his wife Jessica; stepdaughter Julie Hawkins; son-in-law John Statkiewicz; Six grandchildren, six step grandchildren and six great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife and parents, Richard is predeceased by his brother John Avritch, sister Rhoda Wrobleski and step daughter Susan Statkiewicz.

A graveside service and military honors will be held on Saturday, June 15, at 10 a.m. directly at Peacedale Cemetery, on James P Casey Road in Bristol; Local Reception to follow directly after for family and friends to gather in Dick’s honor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT, woundedwarriorproject.org.

To leave an online message of condolence, share a memory or a photo, please visit Dick’s tribute page at https://www.obrien-funeralhome.com/.

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