Richard Ballestrini, Jr.

Richard "Dick" Ballestrini, Jr., 86, of Salem, passed away Wednesday (Sept. 21, 2016) at the Wm. W. Backus Hospital in Norwich.  Born December 28, 1929 in New London, he was the son of the late Richard and Lillian (Martini) Ballestrini.  Dick was a graduate of Buckley High School in New London, where he was an outstanding athlete.  He went on to play baseball for the Brooklyn Dodgers minor league affiliate.  Following a career-ending arm injury, he began his career at Electric Boat in Groton. Mr.  Ballestrini joined the Korean War effort in 1951, serving in Germany  with the Army.  Upon his honorable discharge in 1953, he returned to Electric Boat until his retirement in 1988 after 41 years of service.  During his tenure, Dick's work on the USS Nautilus, the first nuclear submarine, was the highlight of his career.  In his retirement, he enjoyed a quiet life at his home of 55 years in Salem and his greatest joy was found in spending time with his children and grandson.  He leaves three children, Debra, Rick and Glen; his grandson; Ehryn; four nieces, Lisa, Donna, Lori and Susan; a nephew, Brian; and numerous extended family and friends.  In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Geraldine, Frederick “Mick” and Tracy.
The family will receive guests starting at 11 AM Thursday (Sept. 29th) at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester before a 12 Noon Chapel Service with military honors.  Burial will be private.  In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 (woundedwarriorproject.org).