Month: August 2026

Dick Sederquist

Richard “Dick” Sederquist Obituary

Dick Sederquist passed away on May 23, 2026. He was born in Boston, MA, February 20, 1938, the son of Carl and Hazel Sederquist formerly from Melrose, MA, and later from Wethersfield, CT. A graduate of Melrose High School, a BSME from Tufts University and MSME from RPI Hartford Graduate Center, Dick worked for 38 years as an engineer at United Technology Corporation on rocket motors, alternative energy and fuel cells. After retirement, he worked over fifteen years as an engineering consultant in the alternative energy field, holding over 60 US patents in related fields. In 2009, he became a volunteer motivational speaker for the Connecticut Department of Correction, creating and conducting a successful mentoring program “Life Change Discussion Group” for over 200 inmates at the Enfield, Osborn, Bridgeport and Cheshire Correctional Institutions.

Dick and his wife, Linda, have climbed all the 4,000-foot peaks in New England, and with his son, the hundred highest peaks in New England and 97 of the highest peaks in New York. Dick is the author of five memoirs Hiking Out (2007), Inside and Outside (2011), Hiking Out Again (2021), Talking a Walk (2022), and Bent But Not Broken. These memoirs, depicting life as seen through the eyes of a hiker, surviving depression, humor, travel, his 10-year prison ministry, aging, and living with and overcoming the physical issues associated with decreased mobility. Dick and his wife Linda have been active members of the Universalist Church of West Hartford, CT, since1997.

Dick is survived by his best friend and wife, Linda, married since 1961; his daughter Karen Cole and her husband Steven of Madison, CT, and their two children, Michael and his wife Mary and daughter Cora, Lauren and her husband Andy; his son Jeffrey and his wife Kathi Krivanec Sederquist of Harwinton, CT, and their two children, Morgan and Christopher, his brother Dr. Robert Sederquist and his wife Elaine of Harwinton, CT, and their two children and their families. He also leaves his extended family of hiking “Clowns” a group of devoted friends he has been hiking and snow shoeing with since 1974.

A Memorial Service will be held on June 7th, 2026 (11:30am) at the Universalist Church, 433 Fern St, West Hartford, CT. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice or to support the community works of the Universalist Church of West Hartford, Connecticut.

David Wadstrup

Born on February 23, 1946, in Hartford, Connecticut, David spent most of his life in Rocky Hill, where he built a home, raised a family, and became a cherished member of the community. He graduated from Hall High School in West Hartford and proudly served his country in the Army National Guard for more than 20 years.

David dedicated over 40 years of his career to Eversource, where he was respected for his hard work, reliability, and commitment. Outside of work, he had a passion for woodworking and home improvement. Whether crafting something with his hands or working on his home, David found joy in creating and fixing things. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, and there were few projects he couldn’t tackle.

A man of deep faith and service, David devoted countless hours volunteering to help build St. Elizabeth Seton Church in Rocky Hill, a labor of love that reflected his generous spirit and dedication to his community. He remained actively involved with the church for many years and later became a devoted member of the Universalist Church of West Hartford, where he continued to build meaningful friendships and serve others.

David will be remembered most for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering willingness to help anyone in need. He never hesitated to give his time, talents, or encouragement to family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers. His gentle nature, warm smile, and selfless heart touched the lives of many.

Nothing brought David greater happiness than his family. He especially treasured watching his two grandsons grow up and was a familiar face at nearly every sporting event, school activity, and milestone in their lives. His love and pride for them were evident to all who knew him.

David was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend. He leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Donna Wadstrup; his son, David Vadstrup, and his partner, Ellen Hubbard; his son, Michael Wadstrup, and his wife, Carmen Wadstrup; and his cherished grandsons, David Wadstrup and Luke Wadstrup. He also leaves behind many extended family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow church members who will miss his compassion, wisdom, and quiet strength.

David’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the countless acts of kindness and service that defined his life. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Dave asked to be buried at sea; there will be no memorial service.