Richard L. Baldus

Richard "Bear" Leo Baldus, of Model Park Road, passed away Monday, May 30, 2016, at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital.
He was born Aug. 7, 1941, in Austin, Minn., the son of the late Russell and Sylvia (LaVallie) Baldus. He married Bonnie Lee (Anthony) April 27, 1963, in Blackfoot, Idaho.
Bear served 22 years in the U.S. Navy, retiring as chief. After his retirement, he and his wife ran RIBON Gulf in Groton for 15 years and Bears Package Store in Ledyard for 15 years.
Bear was a communicant of Our Lady Lourdes Church, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a past member of the parish council and property management. He was also a member of The American Legion, the Fleet Reserve, the Ledyard Fair, Inc., and a member of the National Association for Uniformed Services. He was also an Eagle Scout.
Bear was very creative and loved to make things with his hands. He was an avid gardener and cook, and loved all things to do with nature.
In addition to his loving wife Bonnie, he is survived by his daughter, Christine Carenza and son, Brian Baldus; brothers Hector, Lester and Mike Baldus; sister Darlene Hueser; and grandchildren, Matthew, Tony and Christopher Carenza and Brandi, Brice and Braeden Baldus.