Bradley David Elkins
On Friday, October 3, 2008, Bradley David Elkins, 58, of Southington, joined the angels while surrounded by his loving and devoted family after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Meriden, Connecticut on October 22, 1949. Beloved husband of Ana Rodriguez Elkins for 33 years and loving father to daughter, Kelly-Ann and son-in-law, Seamus McNeally of Middletown. He also leaves behind his mother, Genevieve Sperry of Wallingford; sisters-in-law, Miriam Molina of Meriden and her husband Edwin, and their families and Iris Wyman of Florida and her husband Keith, as well as several cousins and many great friends. Brad was predeceased by his father Stephen Elkins, sister, Patricia Elkins, and brother Stephen Elkins As a Vietnam Army Veteran who served in the 101st Airborne Division, he received a Purple Heart, multiple medals and awards for his service and received an honorable discharge in 1973. Education was of great importance to Brad and he was on a constant quest for knowledge. Upon returning from Vietnam he attended Northeastern University, and later, pursued a successful career with Times Fiber Communications as a project manager in the Fiber Optics Division for many years. A self-made entrepreneur, he has been the owner of a successful restaurant for over 20 years. As a business owner, he often based his own success on the achievement of his employees. Brad was also a savvy investor and real estate developer who thrived on new ideas and innovation. He was a certified Dive Master with PADI and enjoyed fishing with his friend, William Brockett, as well as spending time with family pets, Baily and Finnegan. Also, a member of the Pete Fountains Half Fast Walking Club in New Orleans. Brad's greatest joys in life were spending time with his family and helping others to achieve their goals. His warmth and generosity touched all of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. Funeral from Beecher & Bennett Flatow Funeral Home, 48 Cook Ave., Meriden, on Tuesday, October 7th at 11a.m. to St. Rose Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30. Interment to follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery with Military Honors. Friends may visit with the family on Monday evening from 4 to 7p.m. Memorial contributions in Brad's name may be sent to Franciscan Home Care and Hospice, 269 Finch Ave., Meriden, CT 06451.
There is a . GREAT VOID. with the loss of a GREAT FRIEND and BUDDY. He will not be forgotten–and our times together and shared conversations will be fondly remembered and will always bring a smile.