Richard Alan Clarkson, age 88, of Sandy Hook and Boynton Beach, Fla., passed away peacefully at home on July 5. He will be missed by his wife of 61 years, Carole Clarkson.

He was born July 27, 1932, in Sharon, Conn., son of the late Howard and Lucy (Rouse) Clarkson. Richard grew up in Pawling, N.Y. He was predeceased by his brothers and their spouses, Howard (Janet) and Roger (Rose) Clarkson.

Following high school, he graduated from Alfred State College (electric technology) and served four years in the Navy. He was employed for 34 years at NYSEG in Brewster, N.Y. Richard was happiest at home working on various projects. If it was broken, he could fix it. Renovate it — no problem. Put on a new roof, add a big back porch, fix the car, he could do it all.

Richard loved traveling, and he and Carole were fortunate to visit many places around the world. When asked what his favorite place was, he would always say, “The last place we visited!”

He is survived by his children, Sheila Merlotto (Raymond) and Steven Clarkson (Janine); his grandchildren, Raymond Merlotto, Nicole Merlotto, and Bryn Clarkson; as well as many nieces and nephews and their families.

Friends may greet Richard’s family at the Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, on Friday, July 9, from 2 to 5 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Feeding America, feedingamerica.org, or a charity of your choice.

To leave online condolences for his family or to share a story, please visit honanfh.com.