Richard Edward Erff

Richard Edward Erff, 84, of Bluffton, SC passed away May 3, 2020 at his home.  He was born on June 27, 1935 in New Haven, CT to the late Frederick and Marion Zottoli Erff. 

Richard was raised and spent most of his life in Wallingford, CT where he graduated from LHHS.  He and his wife, Jean, later moved to Westbrook, CT before retiring to Bluffton, SC.

Mr. Erff was a member of the Knights of Columbus for over thirty years.  He started in Council 5 in Wallingford, CT and was a member of Council 12263 in Bluffton, SC when he passed.

Military service was a large part of his life.  Richard served in the Army National Guard in Connecticut for 6 years.  He served also in the 2nd Company Governor’s Foot Guard for 40 years, serving the last 8 year as Major Commandant.  After retiring from the Governor's Foot Guard, he became Commander of the Centennial Legion for 2 years before retiring as a Full Colonel.

The bulk of Mr. Erff’s career was spent in the steel industry in sales. He started his career with Ulbrich of Wallingford, CT and ended with Cold Metal Product who purchased Stanley’s Steel division in New Britain, CT.

He was an eleven-year resident of Bluffton, SC, and was an active member of St. Gregory the Great Parish of Bluffton.  He was also an active member of the S.C. Sheriff’s Association and a life-long avid golfer.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Jean T. Erff; two sons, Richard D. Erff (Dawn) and David F. Erff (Yolanda); one brother, Francis Erff; one sister-in-law, Kay Erff; one grandchild, Abby Erff; two step grandchildren, Najee Avante and Chase Samuels; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was predeceased by one brother, Leonard Erff.

The family will celebrate his life with a private family Funeral Mass.

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