Richard J Cronin

Richard J. Cronin
1941–2026

Richard J. Cronin, 85, husband of Dr. Mary (Palanzo) Cronin, died on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Danbury Hospital.

Mr. Cronin was born in Lynn, Massachusetts on February 28, 1941, a twin son to Robert and Mary (Dolan) Cronin. He attended school in Lynn and graduated from St. Mary’s Boys High School. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of New Hampshire.

He proudly served his country as a Captain in the U.S. Army’s First Cavalry Division, including overseas service in Korea. Mr. Cronin was an operations manager for PIC Design of Middlebury, CT, where he worked for over 40 years.

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who found his greatest joy in spending time with his family, especially his two granddaughters, who brought him immense pride and happiness. Known for his quiet strength and generosity, he was a selfless provider and a constant source of support to his entire family. A history buff and voracious reader, he had a deep appreciation for learning and was an engaging storyteller. He also took particular pleasure in cooking for family gatherings, especially during holidays and football Sundays. His menu reflected what he grew up with, and he had a familiar roster of dishes that became part of those traditions. Many cherished memories were made together cheering on his beloved New York Giants.

A resident of Danbury for the past sixty-seven years, Mr. Cronin was a member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church of Danbury, served as an usher and was a member of the Holy Name Society.

In addition to his wife, Dr. Mary M. Cronin of fifty-eight years, he is survived by a son, Thomas R. Cronin and his wife Susan; two grandchildren, Lindsay and Haley; three brothers, twin brother Robert (Carol), Dennis (Carol), and Michael (Pat); a sister, Mary Frasca (Fred); a sister-in-law, Jean Cronin; and several nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Cronin was predeceased by a brother, James.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Danbury, with the Rev. Gregg D. Mecca officiating. Burial will follow in St. Peter Cemetery, Danbury.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at the Jowdy-Kane Funeral Home, 9 Granville Ave., Danbury from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

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