Richard Eugene Gabriele

Richard Gabriele, 91, a lifelong resident of Stamford, passed away peacefully at his home on February 18, 2026. Born in Stamford on November 4, 1934, he was the son of the late Luigi and Mary (Zigaro) Gabriele.

A man of many talents and a tireless work ethic, Richard attended Belltown, Burdick, and Stamford High Schools before proudly serving in the United States Army from 1954 to 1957. Throughout his career, he mastered numerous trades, beginning as a barber, real estate broker and held various retail sales positions with Sears Roebuck & Co. and Valentine & Rogers. He found his stride in the food and beverage industry and was best known as the owner of Richard’s Luncheonette and later Richard’s Backyard, a sidewalk café in New Canaan. Fifteen years later, he began a new chapter in Cocoa Beach, FL, where he was the food and beverage manager for a Holiday Inn Resort. He found his way back to Connecticut and his career ended retiring from JC Penney in Trumbull, CT, where he was a top sales associate in the furniture department.

Richard’s faith and community involvement were central to his life. He was a devout Catholic and a 4th Degree Honorary Life Member of the Knights of Columbus for 60 years. He was the committee chairperson for the Stamford High School Class of 1953, most recently organizing their 70th reunion in 2023.

Richard’s passion for bringing joy to others extended into his own entrepreneurial venture, House of Bears, where he spent many years showcasing personalized bear collectibles at local craft shows throughout Connecticut and New York. He also spent many years overseeing the seasonal operations for Cherry Hill Productions, where he took great pride in managing the Santa Claus and Easter Bunny photo production sets. He created lasting memories and traditions for not just his own family, but for children and families in the community.

Known for the twinkle in his eye, a heart of gold, and a fun-loving spirit, Richard lived a vibrant life filled with music, dancing, and hosting parties. He had a profound love for animals, but his greatest fulfillment came from his family, who were the center of his world.

He is survived by his children, Lisa LoRusso (Richard) of Stamford and Gina Ventre (Gerald) of Kennesaw, GA; seven grandchildren, Gerald Jr., Joseph (Katie), Christopher (Krista), Jason (Kelly), Michael (Kristi), Nicole (Brandon), and Daniel (Emily); and 14 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law, Louis Molgano, and many beloved nephews, nieces and cousins. Richard was predeceased by his siblings: Pauline Valentine (Louis), Helen Montecalvo (Michael), Rita Molgano, and Louis Gabriele (Mary).

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Sharon for the compassionate care she provided the last several months. In addition, special thanks to Patricia, as well as Waveny Home Healthcare Services.

Family and friends may call at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, February 25, at Sacred Heart Church, 37 Schuyler Avenue, Stamford. Interment will follow at Fairfield Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Stamford Firefighters Local 786 Burn Foundation, 629 Main Street, Stamford, CT 06901 To leave a message of condolence online, please visit www.cognetta.com.