CHESHIRE – Dr. Frederick R. Romaniello, 87, of Quarry Village Road, passed peacefully at Elim Park Senior Living in Cheshire on Friday, May 19, 2023. Fred passed away only 44 days after his beloved wife of 62 years, Stormy Heart (Brooks) Romaniello, whom he met when he was in dental school at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., almost 65 years ago.
He was born on Nov. 8, 1935, in Torrington. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his parents Carmine J. and Emma A. (Orsini) Romaniello; his younger brother and only sibling, Thomas P. Romaniello; and his grandson Matthew James Romaniello.
He was a graduate of Crosby High School and attended UConn. Stormy and Fred were married at the home of his aunt Kathryn and uncle Henry Orsini in Abilene, Texas, in 1960 while Fred was stationed in the Air Force serving as a dentist.
They moved to Waterbury upon completion of his service in 1962. Dr. Fred went on to open his practice in Thomaston, where he became a local mainstay serving the community and surrounding towns for more than 45 years. He was an active member of both the Greater Waterbury and Connecticut Dental societies.
Fred was known for his quick wit and silliness, especially with his grandchildren. He was a lifelong musician, often singing songs and playing his ukulele to the enjoyment of all. Even toward the end of his life, in an advanced state of dementia, he was entertaining the residents and staff at Elim Park.
Fred was an avid fan of NASCAR, the New York Giants, UConn men’s and women’s basketball and country music.
He is survived by his three sons, Frederick R. Romaniello Jr. (Lauran) of Wolcott, James R. Romaniello (Denise) of Sorrento, Fla., Joseph T. Romaniello (Denise) of Derby; and daughter Terry Ellen Watson (Dean) of Woodbury. He was the loving grandfather to Frederick III, Nicholas, Christopher (CJ), Brian, Emma, Haley, and Casey.
The family would like to acknowledge the great care and compassion he received while at home from aide Nate Mokgosi, and the nurses and aides at Elim Park Senior Living in Cheshire.
Calling hours will be Wednesday, June 21, 2023, from 4 until 6 p.m. at the Woodbury location of Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home, 2 School St. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Thursday, June 22, 2023, 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, located 50 Fairmont Place, Shelton, CT 06484, with military honors to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Dementia Society of America in his name, 322 W. 52nd St., Suite No. 100, New York, NY 10101.
To send an online condolence, visit munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.
