The Rea family is saddened to announce the passing of Derm Rea, 89. Derm, or Dermie, was born in Hartford, CT, in 1933. He was born into difficult times by Irish immigrant parents (John & Sheelagh), living in project housing during the Great Depression. He bore the title of "Depression Baby" as a badge of honor his entire life. He was raised in Hartford with his late brother John "Jack" Rea, and his late cousin Robert Kelleher. Derm graduated from Bulkeley High School in 1952, where he lettered in Swimming twice and was given the superlative "class cutest."

In January 1953, Derm was drafted into the US Army. He served two years under the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) in Paris, France. Upon leaving the service in 1955, Derm started a 33-year career with the Southern New England Telephone Co.

Derm married his beloved wife Janet in 1967. The two established a residence in Durham, CT, the same year. He lived there until his dying day. In addition to his wife, Derm is survived by his loving children: Heather (Jeff Emack), Brendan Sr., Justin, and Deirdre. He is also survived by his grandchildren, whom he was especially fond of: Sydney, Hannah, Brendan Jr., and Kathryn. Dermie always showed his love with his presence and support.

He made a point to attend all of his posterity's sporting events, concerts, parties, and all other special events. Dermie enjoyed the simple things in life. He was such an avid Red Sox fan; he preferred to watch the Yankees lose over watching the Red Sox win. In addition, he enjoyed watching Patriots football and UCONN women's basketball. He had an enormous sweet tooth and was a bowl of rum raisin ice cream's worst enemy.

Dermie was a friend to everyone and will be greatly missed.

Graveside services, with military honors, will be held Thursday (Aug. 11 ^th ) at 10 a.m. at the CT State Veterans' Cemetery, Bow Lane, Middletown. Friends may call at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown, Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m.  Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) at https://www2.jdrf.org/ or JDRF, PO BOX 37920, Boone IA 50037-0920. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.