Gary A. Penfield

Gary A Penfield (81) of Zephyrhills, FL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 4, 2025. Born on October 3, 1944, he was the son of the late Allen and Eva (Wilen) Penfield. Gary was born in West Hartford and moved to Middletown where he attended and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School (Class of “63”). His love for his country led him to serving in the USArmy. He attended and graduated from Stevens College and the University of Baltimore. He was employed by Rudolph Technologies until his retirement in 2014.
Gary was a carefree spirited soul who loved exploring the world through food, snowmobiling through the trails he adored, and photography. He enjoyed family gatherings, holiday parties, sports, Saturday night dances, winters in Florida and summers in New Hampshire. His passion for sports started at a young age, playing multiple sports in high school and college. He continued playing different sports until he found pickleball. Pickleball brought him on countless adventures, winning awards in almost all the tournaments he entered. He even earned recognition in several pickleball books.
Gary was a goal-driven, transtibial amputee who never let obstacles define him. He inspired many with his determination to prove that not even the hardest challenges can stop you from doing what you love. His favorite quote was “There is one thing certain about this crazy thing called life…NO one makes it out alive…so live regret free, take chances, enjoy every day as it comes and BE HAPPY”. And those who knew him knew that is exactly how he lived his life.
Gary leaves behind three daughters, Kym Ciccia and her husband Guy of Middletown, Heather Penfield of Middletown, and Beverly Clark and her husband Lenny from Peabody, MA. A sister Beverly Radziwon of Higganum. A grandson Vincent Ciccia of Middletown. His extended family Ann Penfield of AZ, Josh Burack of NC, Alexandra Burbank of AZ and many cousins. He is affectionately known as “Uncle Gary” to so many. Along with his parents Gary is predeceased by his grandson Anthony Freeman, Jr and his brother-in law, Richard Radziwon.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 1:00pm in the Connecticut State Veteran’s Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, CT 06457 where full military honors will be accorded. A gathering of family and friends will take place following the service at the Elk’s Club, 44 Maynard St., Middletown, CT 06457.  To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

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