Richard “Rich” Kulengosky, 51, of East Haven passed away on June 10; after a short battle with cancer, the lord took him home.

Rich left behind his beloved companion, wife, and best friend of 32 years Patricia, also of East Haven, and cherished stepchildren Michelle Nuzzello of East Haven, Kevin Lawlor of Guilford, and Lucia Lawlor of East Haven. Rich was a loving and devoted grandfather to Andrew “Drew his best bud” Kevin Jr., Olivia, and Paulie. He is also survived by his loving mother Sandra Darling and sister Annette (Kulengosky) Karpee, both of East Haven, brother Michael Kulengosky of New Hampshire, and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Christopher Darling.

Rich was a diesel and heavy equipment mechanic and operator. He held a CDL and several certificates in his trade and considered by many to be top notch one of the best mechanics in the field. His last place of employment was Anastasio Group on Middletown Avenue in New Haven. Rich enjoyed buying cars and rebuilding them and riding his motorcycle. He loved being out enjoying life and spending time at the garage with his friends, but mostly he loved being home with his family doing cookouts, outings, and the holidays. He especially cherished spending time with his Andrew; they went everywhere together. Rich was a great role model and taught Andrew how to drive everything with tires, from his bicycle to his car. Rich was an honest, loyal, honorable man always had a positive outlook and had a way to make everything OK. He touched the hearts of so many and will be missed by them all. His devotion, selfless caring, and unconditional love for his family was inspirational he will be dearly missed, “To the world he was one person, but to us he was the world.” Thank you Rich, we love you and you will forever remain close in our hearts.

Family received friends on June 22 in the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home,East Haven. Burial was private.