Richard "Dick" Brescia

Richard “Dick” M. Brescia, 86, of Norwalk, CT, died at home on May 8, 2021, after a tenacious battle with cancer, surrounded by his wife Patsy R. Brescia, their children, and grandchildren.

Born April 24, 1935, in Bridgeport, CT, he was the oldest son of Michael and Dorthea (Brown) Brescia.

Dick met his wife of more than 62 years, Patsy (Scotta) when they were students at the University of Connecticut where he graduated with a degree in psychology in 1957. In addition to his wife, Dick is survived by their children, Bonnie Brescia and Jeanette Poillon of Needham, MA, Steve Brescia and Jill Weiler of Washington, DC, Tina Brescia and Phyllis Bethel of Norwalk, CT, as well as his grandchildren: David Brescia-Weiler, Grace Brescia, Jacob Brescia-Weiler, Maria Brescia-Weiler, Sophia Brescia, Chaz Bethel-Brescia, and Nia Bethel-Brescia; his cousin Cristina Brescia Michta, 3 younger siblings and generations of cherished nieces and nephews.

Since his childhood days, Dick was fascinated with radio whether listening to presidents, sports announcers, variety show hosts or news anchors. Not surprisingly, his professional career included time on-air at UConn and at local radio stations. After several years at WDEW in Westfield, Massachusetts, Dick took a sales position at Mutual Broadcasting in NYC. He joined CBS Radio in the mid 60’s as a regional sales manager, advancing through the company until his appointment as Executive VP, CBS Radio Networks. Among his contributions to the company, Dick brought “Monday Night Football” to radio, helped launch the music network “RadioRadio,” and built a partnership with the Master’s Golf Tournament. After retiring from CBS, he syndicated “old-time radio shows” including Mystery Theater, managed Stamford’s radio station WSTC, advised emerging media enterprises such as Sirius Radio, and others in Eastern Europe.

Dick was an avid golfer and fervent fan of the NY Giants, UConn women’s basketball, and the Yankees. He shared his keen eye for outstanding athletes with his children and grandchildren who frequently joined him at Giants games or on the links. He served as president of both Silvermine and Shorehaven Golf Clubs.

In recent years, Dick contributed his talents and love of Norwalk by serving as the Chairman of the Parking Authority and supporting other initiatives to enhance the city’s business environment. He also previously served on the boards of VITAM and NEON in Norwalk and the Boys and Girls Club of Bridgeport. From 1957 to 1962 Dick served in the US Army Reserve.

Dick will be remembered for his deep resonant radio voice, animated story telling, dry wit, love of music and love of family. A private family celebration is planned.

In lieu of flowers or gifts and to honor his love of music and support of veterans, the family requests that any donations in his honor be given to the Healing our Heroes Music Therapy program for combat veterans at the Music Conservatory of Westchester in White Plains, NY 10606. This program is coordinated by Dick’s youngest daughter Tina Brescia.

https://musicconservatory.org/support-us/donate-now/

Per funeral home: The family prefers donations to the above link and NOT flowers or a tree planted.