Obituary of Richard "Rick" Swanson

Richard "Rick" W. Swanson, age 75, of Shelton passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 9, 2021 at his home. He was the beloved husband of the late Madeline (Bunovsky) Swanson. Born in Bridgeport on December 12, 1945, he was the son of the late Robert Swanson and Dorothy (Raymond) Swanson. Richard attended Warren Harding High School and later entered the U.S. Navy on the USS Richard E. Byrd, where he served honorably during the Vietnam War. His love for car restoration was fulfilled as the owner and operator of Rick's Auto Body for over 40 years. He was a master craftsman, considered by many as one of the best in the country. His skills and knowledge allowed him to provide quality service for those in need and he earned the respect of many. He provided mentorship and shared his talents with many young future mechanics and auto body technicians, whom some have gone on to open their own businesses.

Rick, or 'Swanny' to some, was an avid fisherman and a racing enthusiast. He belonged to Milford Riders Club and raced motorcycles at Accord Speedway in New York - #11 and the famous # 222 - riding his Bultaco 250. He then took a turn at racing street stock cars - #39 – at Riverside Park Speedway in Agawam, Massachusetts. He built many long standing friendships with those who shared his passion for speed. He also encouraged many others to enter into the racing world – all who held the same appreciation.

His greatest joy, other than spending time surrounded by his loving family and friends, was restoring his and others antique cars – (we cannot even tell you just how many he built from the frame up). Rick spent countless hours in his garage which was always a constant hub of activity with visitors coming by to check out his latest projects - which he took great pride in. Always a sharp dresser, in his T-shirt and jeans, Rick was a charming, friendly, popular guy who attracted many friends. He was always there when anyone needed help. Just don't ask to borrow his tools!

He was lucky to have the support of his beloved wife Madeline in all of his projects and hobbies. They would spend many afternoons at local car shows, bringing his different cars and trucks that he built throughout the years. More times than not, they would be carrying home a trophy, even the coveted "Best of Show". Rick's daughters always beamed with pride, knowing that their Dad's car was the best.

A very loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend of many, he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his loving daughters, Jennifer Simonetti and her husband David and Michelle DiNatale and her husband Michael, both of Shelton, his cherished grandchildren, Justin Fabozzi of Bainbridge Island, WA, and Katherine Simonetti and Zachary Simonetti, both of Shelton. His brother, Robert Swanson and his wife Karen of Virginia Beach, and his sister, Charlene Jubenville and her husband Al of Shelton, his brother-in-law, John Michols of Milford and sister-in-law, Joyce Bunovsky-Bell of Ansonia as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his beloved wife of 53 years, Madeline, he was also predeceased by his brother, Thomas Swanson and his sister, Elaine Michols.

A walk-through visitation will be held on Sunday, May 16, 2021 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd., Trumbull. Guests are required to wear a face mask and socially distance as they enter the building, pay their respects and then exit in order to allow others the same opportunity. Graveside funeral services with full military honors will be held on Monday, May 17, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in Riverside Cemetery, Shelton. The family would like to request you drive your classic car in show of support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Milford Riders Club, c/o Randy Simpson, 300 Old Post Rd., Northfield, CT  06472 which will go to the annual Rick Swanson Scholarship fund.