Richard Berntsen

“Richard Earl Berntsen, 72, of Hamden, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at Yale New Haven Hospital on June 17, 2026.

Born to the late Earl Berntsen and Ruth (Kittredge) Fritzell, Richard proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War era. On July 29, 1973, he married Barbara Lewis, and together they shared nearly 53 years of marriage.

Richard worked in the electrical industry for many years, including Electrical Wholesalers and Grand Light. In his free time, he enjoyed watching classic car shows, tinkering with stereo equipment, and growing his collection of vinyl records.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; his children, Kimberly (Mike) Halkiotis, Kenneth (Alicia) Berntsen, and Samantha (Mike) Hurley; his siblings, Kathy Ann Fritzell and Thomas Berntsen; and six grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter, Wendy-Ann Berntsen; his siblings, Deborah Barker and Donald Berntsen; and his parents.

A memorial service to celebrate Rich’s life will be planned at a later date, with details to be shared by the family.“ Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.