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Obituary for Richard William Waterhouse of Higganum, Connecticut: 1950 – 2021

October 3, 2023

Our good friend and team mate passed away on Friday May, 28th. We are keeping Dick’s wife Janet and family in our thoughts and prayers during these difficult times.

Below is Dick’s obituary published by Biega Funeral Home:

Richard William Waterhouse, age 70, of Higganum, CT died unexpectedly at work on May 28, 2021.  “Dick” was born on July 28, 1950, to Edith and Bill Waterhouse of Northfield, CT (both deceased).  He leaves his best friend and wife of 32 years, Janet (Ward) Waterhouse.  He is survived by his older brother Thomas Waterhouse and Tom’s wife Elyse of Northfield, CT and predeceased by his younger brother, Harry R. Waterhouse of Northfield, CT.  He also leaves sisters-in-law, Ellen Waterhouse of Northfield, CT and Sharon Ward of New Milford, CT. His nieces: Laurel Waterhouse presently residing in the UK; Amye Waterhouse living in Northfield, CT; Heather Riebeling of Philadelphia, PA and her twin, Dawn (Riebeling) Stevenson of Arlington, VA as well as Dawn’s husband Mike and their sons Connor and Shane.  His multitude of dear friends would fill the page.

After a happy and adventurous childhood on the family’s property in Northfield, CT, Dick attended Marietta College, Marietta, OH where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, achieving Dean’s List and graduating in 1974.  His Senior Year project remained one of his most meaningful and challenging accomplishments: teaching swimming to children with mental and emotional challenges.  After graduation – being a curious, independent spirit – Dick and one of his best friends rode across the great-USA on Honda motorcycles.  During their travels they discovered not only the majestic and inspiring beauty of our country, but also the kindness and generosity of people.

Upon his return to Northfield, he joined the Travelers Insurance company where he assisted clients with insurance and estate planning.  His love for cars led him to work in multiple dealerships over a 13-year period, primarily as an Automotive Service Advisor.  After sailing a Tartan 33 out of Mystic, CT for 3 years, he realized that he loved the maritime lifestyle. He signed on with the Clearwater Foundation as a deckhand on the 100’ schooner ‘Voyager’ to provide educational excursions to children in the New York area.  That experience convinced him to apply his sales skills to a passion, so in 1996, he began selling new boats for Hellier Yacht Sales Inc. in New London, CT.  That leap led to the most rewarding and challenging years of his career.  He sold vessels – both power and sail – ranging from 20 feet to 64 feet for multiple dealers, the most recent being Brewer Yacht Sales, Inc. in Westbrook, CT.   His integrity, enthusiasm, and deep knowledge secured him a solid reputation within the industry.

Whether restoring a 1969 Jaguar E-type coupe or a 1953 Dodge Power Wagon, sailing a Hobie catamaran, or riding his ST1100 Honda motorcycle, Dick’s love for adventure, challenges and problem-solving kept him engaged.  Vacations were spent chartering boats in the Caribbean, sailing Long Island Sound, or relaxing at Sebec Lake in Maine. Sharing laughter and making memories with his lifetime friends from Northfield and Sebec Lake were among his greatest joys.  Time with his wife, Jan, and family kept him focused on the value of loved ones and traditions.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation honoring Dick are encouraged to consider: NEADS World Class Service Dogs; mail a check to: NEADS, Inc. P.O. Box 1100 Princeton, MA 01541 or donate online: neads.org.  During Dick’s multiple surgeries and hospitalizations over the past 13 years, his devoted dog, Maxwell, was by his side to provide comfort and motivation.  Dick wanted others to benefit from the healing power of a dog’s unconditional love.

Calling hours will be held at Biega Funeral Home on Thursday June 10, 2021 from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m.  Biega Funeral Home is located at 3 Silver St. Middletown, CT 06457. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.