Obituary of Richard M. Lever Sr.

Richard M. Lever, a treasured patriarch entered into eternal rest peacefully on February 25^th, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Richard “Dick” of Monroe, CT (formerly of Trumbull, CT) was born on February 1^st, 1935 to the late Elizabeth (Donahue) and Edwin Lever of Manasquan, New Jersey. He was predeceased by his beautiful daughter, Beth Hare. 

He grew up in Manasquan and Brielle, NJ. Richard graduated from St. Rose High School in Belmar, NJ and the College of the Holy Cross – go Crusaders! He is also a proud veteran of the U.S. Army.

Richard devoted his entire career to various facets of the food industry starting with Swift & Company in the meat business and a variety of food distribution food companies, later establishing his food brokerage: Lever Associates. In retirement, Dick enjoyed spending his time working at a golf course as site supervisor for the town of Westport Parks & Recreation.

In 1959 Richard married the love of his life, Judy (Saunders) Lever. Together, Richard and Judy had 6 children – “his crown jewels” Cathy Bohm-Geller (David), the late Beth Hare (Brian), Patty Markus (Joe), Ricky Lever (Suzanne), Jeff Lever (Tanya), and Timmy Lever (Cheryl).

Above all, family came first and foremost for Richard. He loved nothing more than spending his time with his 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren (with one more on the way!) They were his pride and joy.

Richard was a huge fan of the NY Giants and UConn women’s basketball, attending many of their games including practices where he had the pleasure of meeting all of the coaches. Geno! He spent his summers in Long Beach Island, NJ with his family. He never missed a late afternoon swim or a trip to the Big Dipper for his favorite ice cream, a peanut butter ripple. He spent his falls on the sidelines of the Masuk football games. He was the ultimate sideline cheerleader for all of his grandchildren. Perhaps you had the privilege of bumping into him at one of these events – where he was sure to talk your ear off. We will miss our Poppy’s sense of humor, his one liners and how he never failed to ask “how are YOU doing?” 

A special thank you to the fantastic staff at St. Vincent’s Hospital – we love and appreciate you!

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Swim Across the Sound (c/o St. Vincent Medical Center, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport, CT 06606, https://charity.pledgeit.org/f/tt49nKShIJ  in honor of Richard’s late daughter Beth Hare – Boo’s Crew!

In memory of our Poppy – please have a dish of your favorite ice cream. Woooooo!

Richard’s life will be celebrated on Friday, March 1^st, 2024. Visitation will be held at Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd., Trumbull from 10:30-11:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Stephen Church, 6948 Main St., Trumbull at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Trumbull. To leave an online visit www.abriola.com.