Richard Michael Carrique

Richard M. Carrique, 96, of Bristol, affectionately known as “Rip” passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at home. He was the devoted husband of his beloved “Tootsie,” the late Adelaide (Curran) Carrique.

Richard was born on October 1, 1928 in Newark, New Jersey, son to the late Ralph Carrique and Cirila Velazquez and the step-son to Jenny and Joe Tubner. Richard's early years were steeped in the vibrant life of New York, where he spent countless afternoons on his front stoop in Brooklyn, engaging with neighbors and sharing stories that would echo throughout the years. Throughout his life, Richard demonstrated that family was always his highest priority, and he worked diligently to provide for them. His sacrifices and dedication will forever be cherished by those who were blessed to call him family.

As a devout Catholic, Richard found comfort and strength in daily Mass, where he nurtured his faith and community bonds. Richard's love for his family, faith and nation was evident in every facet of his life. He honorably served in the United States Army, embodying the beliefs of duty and sacrifice. His patriotism was not merely a sentiment, but an active celebration of the values that define America. Richard proudly displayed the American flag throughout his life, a constant reminder of his commitment to freedom and service.

As a member of the Knights of Columbus and Catholic War Veterans, Richard found community and fellowship among those who shared his love for faith and country. Additionally, he was a proud supporter of the American Legion, where he furthered his dedication to veterans and their families. His life was characterized by a steadfast commitment to service, an exemplary role model for those around him.

Richard was a man of simple pleasures. In his free time, he could often be found listening to his favorite music and stories on YouTube, engrossed in a captivating movie, or engaging in spirited games of cards with friends and family. These moments brought him joy and provided him with a sense of connection that he valued deeply.

Richard is survived by his children, Eileen Ronan and her husband, Joseph, Joseph Carrique, John Carrique and his wife, Victoria, and Kathleen Cuevas and her husband, Christopher; his sister, Delores Esparcia; his grandchildren, Christine Fulton and her husband, Josiah, Brian Ronan and his wife, Christina, Nicole Cuevas and her fiance, Devin, Daniel Cuevas, Elizabeth Carrique, Ethan Carrique, and John Matthew Carrique; his great-grandchildren, Ben, Brooklyn, Landin and Tullulah; and many nieces, nephews and close friends. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his son, Richard Carrique, Jr and his brothers, Ralph Carrique, Henry Carrique, Vincent Carrique, and Ronald Carr.

Richard’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Accent Care Hospice Team, John, Heidi and Shannon and Richard’s trusted angels, his caregivers, Sagla and Lynn, who were truly angels in their time of need.

Family and friends are welcome to gather on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 4 to 7 PM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. Funeral services will begin on Friday, January 17 at 9:30 AM at Plainville Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 17 at 10:30 AM at St. Gregory the Great Church, 235 Maltby Street, Bristol. Richard will be laid to rest with full military honors at the Calverton National Cemetery, New York on Monday, January 20 at 12 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Richard may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (www.dav.org) or to the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org). For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard Michael Carrique, please visit our floral store.