Raymond F. Larolo

Raymond F. Larolo, age 87, while surrounded by his family passed away at CT Hospice in Branford on Dec. 16, 2010 after a long illness. Ray was born in New York City on February 25, 1923 a son of the late Michael & Francesca Cardella Ugliarolo. He was a resident of Hamden since 1969. Besides his wife Marilyn Burt Larolo, Ray is survived by two daughters, Christie and her husband Bob Asmussen of Milford, CT and Sherrie and her husband David Matusz MD of Mamaroneck, NY and six grandchildren, Cameron & Ava Asmussen, David Matusz, Jr., Haley, Braden and Skylar Matusz. He was predeceased by his brother Michael Ugliarolo and sister Mary Grace Piccione. Ray was a very caring husband, father and Pop-Pop. He was a Veteran of WW II, 3rd Army (General Patton's Ghost Army), US Army 42nd Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (his awards: Purple Heart, American Service Medal, European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, 3 Battle Stars), CT National Guard Wallingford Staff Sergeant Co. B 745th Signal Co. and Co. B 280th Signal Battalion, Westbrook, CT (Decoration: The Army Achievement Medal). Ray was a very involved member of the Elks Lodge #2224 and astounded people with his ideas. He was Chairman of Veterans Services for two years and initiated fundraising for CT Veterans Hospital in Rocky Hill. He also headed an Adopt A Veteran Program. Cards were mailed out to veterans for their birthdays and holidays. A huge honor in 2003, he was named Elk of the Year. Last but not least, he was founder and patriarch of the Bocce League. He believed courts should be built and after much persuading and determination on Ray's part, two courts were built 10 years ago. Bocce is still going strong and has benefited the Elks socially and financially over these many years.He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Friends may attend his Funeral Service on Monday, December 20, 2010 at 11:00 am in BEECHER & BENNETT Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden and may also visit with his family on Sunday from 3-6 pm at the funeral home. The Elks Lodge will also conduct a service on Sunday at 4:30 pm in the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors will take place in Centerville Cemetery, Hamden. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ray's memory may be made to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405.