Richard F. Baptist, 78, of Apopka, Florida, passed away on June 4, 2022, surrounded by family.
Dick was born to Francis and Louise Baptist on July 4, 1943, in Hartford, Connecticut. He graduated from Newington High School. He then entered the United States Navy in 1961 in which he served 4 years, including as an engineer on the USS Richard E. Kraus destroyer, during the Vietnam War.
He married his high school sweetheart and former wife, Barbara Rapacki on April 22, 1967. A year later, they moved to Miami, Florida and Dick worked in the wine and spirits industry for many years. They welcomed their son, Robert in 1973 and daughter, Sherry in 1975. Eventually the family moved to Longwood, Florida.
Dick is known for the love he had for his family. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family as well as golfing, hunting and fishing.
Dick is survived by sister Patricia Zimonis (Joseph) of Palm Beach Gardens; his son, Robert Baptist (Megan) and daughter Sherry Bare (Matt); grandchildren, Haley Bare, Richard F. Baptist II, Lillian Baptist, William Baptist and Emma Bare.
Dick wishes to spend eternity among the seas, and will be honored with a Burial at Sea by the United States Navy.