Richard F. Marron, 83, of Danbury, died February 5 in Naples, Fla. "Dick," as he was known, was born in Danbury, October 30, 1933, and was the son of the late Helen (Bigham) and Frank Marron.

He spent his childhood in Newtown, graduating from Newtown High School in 1950. He served proudly overseas during the Korean War in the USAF, 5457 Special Ops, at RAF Lakenheath in England. Upon completion of his service he attended and graduated from the University of Connecticut, teaching there and at several area universities. Mr Marron also held degrees from Western Connecticut University and Central Connecticut University.

After graduation he worked with several renowned psychiatrists in the Danbury area. Shortly after, he opened his own practice, Counseling Associates, with offices in Danbury and New Milford. Mr Marron helped thousands of patients with a focus based on Gestalt therapy and hypnosis, for which he gained great respect from his colleagues. He retired quite early after selling his practices, and spent the last 40 years doing what many can only dream of - what he wanted.

He was an ardent reader and an often-published author with a never-ending desire for learning and adventure, pushing both to the edge. His adventures are too numerous to mention, but include climbing Mount Everest, hiking the Great Wall of China, and building and living in an igloo on Mount Washington. As a consummate conservationist, he took a record elk in New Mexico, by bow, as well as a record bear, in Montana. Many of his trips were taken alone, and extended for months, including sailing adventures in the Atlantic, and camping, hiking, and rafting adventures throughout the world.

He did nothing small. When he decided to revisit his childhood hobby of beekeeping it turned into hundreds of hives, millions of bees and, most importantly, endless hours of teaching sessions through his various roles in the Back Yard Beekeepers Association. When not traveling, he could easily be found every night at the Stony Hill Health and Racquet Club, usually teaching the oft younger the fine art of racquetball or squash with a sound beating.

His sons, Steve, and his wife Karen, of Newtown, Paul, and his wife Karen, of Florida, and Larry; his grandchildren Chrysta, Richard, Paul, Ryan, and Ashley; as well as great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews survive Mr Marron. His brothers, Robert and Roger; and his daughter-in-law, Nancy, preceded him in death.

The family extends special thanks to many, including his ex-wife and lifelong friend, and mother to his children, Janice Ryan.

There will be a celebration of his life at the Alexandria Room, Edmond Town Hall, 45 Main Street, Newtown, for friends and family, on March 24, beginning at 1 pm. Interment will be at a later date, at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of contributions to his memory, Mr Marron would want each of us to enjoy today and share your knowledge with someone.