Richard T. Bihlmeyer, 77, of Durham, CT passed away at Middlesex Hospital March 24, 2024.  He was the husband of Nancy Kislowski Bihlmeyer.  Father of Richard Paul (Heather Hollister) and Joseph Earl.  Daughter Robyn passed in 2017.  Grandfather of Rachel Marie.  Brother of Lawrence and Earl, both deceased.  Brother of Elizabeth, Jaime (Sandy), Robert (Dale), John Charles (Carillon), Mary Iris, Teresa Blank (Robert). He leaves many nieces and nephews. He was born in Vermillion, S.D., August 7, 1946, son of the late Earl and Mary Marjorie Bihlmeyer.  Richard graduated with a Associates Degree from Hartford Technical College,  Metallurgy Degree and MBA from University of New Haven.  He retired from SNET as a contract specialist.  He was a Boy Scout Leader for many years and a member of the Middletown Elks 771,   His passion was blacksmithing.  He taught classes at the Guilford Handcraft Center and his Durham workshop.  He was an honorary member of the Durham Fair Association where he was the fair blacksmith.  Donations in his memory may be made to Middlesex Hospital or Durham Fair Association.  A Funeral Liturgy will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at Notre Dame Church, Durham.  .  Burial will be held at Saint Sebastian Cemetery.   Friend may call on Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home 3 Silver Street, Middletown.  To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.