Obituary: Theodore F. Dratch, "T.D." 77, of New Milford

Informatio and Photo Courtesy Lillis Funeral Home

NEW MILFORD, CT — Theodore F. Dratch, "T.D." age 77, of New Milford, left his earthly life on Saturday, September 29, 2018, from the comfort of his home surrounded by his family. He was born on March 29, 1941 to the late Frank Dratch and Mary Koziar Dratch of Bethel, their 7th child.

T.D. was married to Barbara McMahon Dratch in 1963, and they were about to celebrate their 55th anniversary. He graduated from Bethel High School and J.M. Wright Technical School in Stamford, and also attended Bullard Haven Technical School to obtain his master barber license. He is survived by his children, Beth Marino and her husband Henry of Delhi, New York, Kathy Krizan and her fiancé Erik Menzer of New Milford and Frank Dratch of Thomaston. He leaves cherished grandchildren, Nicholas, Megan, Kurtis, Paige, Matthew, Collin, Tommy and Kenneth who he showered with love and taught many important life lessons. He is survived by one sister, Ann Meyerholz, of New Milford, and numerous nephews and nieces who adored him. He was predeceased by his brother, Stephen Dratch, and four sisters, Irene Hanna, Mary Baldelli, Kay Patella and Dorothy Grana.

T. D. was a long time barber, beginning his career with his late brother-in-law at Joe's Barber Shop on Bank Street. He later catered to his customers by going to their homes to give haircuts. T.D. loved hunting and fishing, and going to the horse races in Saratoga Springs, NY, every summer. He was a member of the New Milford Sportsmen Association, and Christ Church in Roxbury, Connecticut. He enjoyed volunteering at various activities as well as the United Way Food Truck. He loved telling jokes, and calling all his friends for their birthdays. He had an engaging smile, and knew how to make everyone feel important. He brought cheer to all who met him and loved giving out small gifts of candy.

Calling hours will be on Friday, Oct. 5, 2018, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Lillis Funeral Home, Bridge Street, New Milford, and Funeral Services will be held on Monday, Oct. 8, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Christ Church, Wellers Bridge Road, Roxbury, followed by interment in the Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the New Milford Visiting Nurse Association Hospice Program, 68 Park Lane Road, New Milford, CT, and Christ Church, 4 Wellers Bridge Road, Roxbury, CT.