Obituary: Rudolph Barcello, 93, Of Middletown

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Rudolph Joseph Barcello, 93, passed away on July 23, 2023, at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown, Connecticut.

Rudy was born on March 22, 1930, in Stamford, Conn., to Joseph A. Barcello and Mary (Petruzzi) Barcello.

He lived in Stamford most of his life before moving to Middletown, Conn., in 2000.

Rudy was predeceased by his wife, Theresa (Moccia) Barcello, his parents, his brother Joseph, and his son-in-law Jeffrey Palmer. He is survived by his 12 children: Theresa Metzgar (Craig), Peter Barcello, Barbara Avery (Arthur), Stephen Barcello (Vanessa), Michael Barcello (Regina), Ann Marie Ladrigan, Frances Steers (Christian), Rudolph Barcello II (Eileen), Catherine Palmer, John Barcello, Christopher Barcello (Vicky), and Thomas Barcello (Tara). He was also the extremely proud grandfather of his 21 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Rudy worked hard to support his large family as an oil burner technician for many years.

When the family interviewed him for his life story, he was asked: “What are your favorite possessions and why?” He responded: “My best non-material possession is my family. The love that is given to me by them is something that is not bought. There is only one material possession that is my favorite: my 2004 Lexus LS430. It takes me where I want to go and doesn't answer back.”

Rudy enjoyed the computer, opera, cryptograms, reading, math, solitaire, and of course, his Lexus. He described himself as “once a teaser, always a teaser” and “a thick-headed Calabrese.” Even at age 93, Rudy was quite adept at navigating independent living. Ordering groceries from his computer for pick-up and driving himself to get them was part of his weekly routine.

His stoic personality was a significant factor in being a cancer survivor. He received wonderful care at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown.

Rudy was a hard worker, gentle giant, and patient man throughout his years. He instilled in all of his children the best traits possible. He is now reunited in Heaven with his bride of 57 years, who has been waiting for him for 15 years.

A Mass to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 310 Westfield Street, Middletown, CT.

Two weeks later, there will be a gravesite prayer gathering on the anniversary of the passing of Rudolph’s wife, Theresa Barcello, on Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2023, at 11:00 am. at Saint John Cemetery, at 25 Camp Avenue Darien, CT.

Donations may be made in his memory to Middlesex Hospital – Office of Philanthropy -28 Crescent Street Middletown, CT 06475 (or donate@midhosp.org) or the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.