Sheldon E. Runlett, Jr. Ret. NHPD, 74, of Wallingford, husband of 30 years to Linda Madigan-Runlett passed away Thursday, September 21, 2017 surrounded in love with his family by his side. Father of Paula (Andrew) Laudano, Kelly (Robert) Zurzola, Brett (Stefanie) Runlett and Jared (Paola) Runlett. Grandfather of Andrea Laudano, Andrew Laudano, Emily Zurzola, Robert Zurzola, Michael Zurzola, Sophiea Runlett, Brett Runlett, Luke Runlett and Eliana Runlett. Brother of Dean (Dana) Runlett, Shella Runlett, Deanne (Ralph) Acabbo and Robbin (Ralph) Nuzzo. Sheldon was born in Rochester, New Hampshire February 12, 1943; son of the late Sheldon E. Runlett, Sr. and Louise Schmierer Runlett. He grew up in Dover, New Hampshire before moving to Milford CT. He attended Milford High School, Class of 1962. Sheldon recalled fond memories of his childhood at Fort Trumbull Beach. Sheldon Served in the Army CT National Guard from 1962-1968. He began his fulfilling career with the New Haven Police Department in 1970. He served in many capacities including a training instructor and his most satisfying and impactful work in the Bias and Sexual Assault Unit. After 30 years of dedicated service, he retired in 2000. Post retirement, Sheldon and Linda moved to a home in Wallingford, adjoining the Tradition Golf Club, where he learned to play golf which quickly became a favorite pastime with his golfing buddies Cliff Hench & William Murdock. Sheldon also enjoyed yearly vacations to Kennebunkport, Maine. Sheldon found his most enjoyment and pride in the lives of his children and grandchildren.
His funeral procession will leave the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, Tuesday morning at 9:30. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated in Church of the Resurrection at 10:00. Interment with full military honors will follow in the North Haven Center Cemetery. The visiting hours will be Monday from 4 to 7 pm. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in Sheldon’s memory to the Church of the Resurrection Building Fund, 115 Pond Hill Road, Wallingford, CT 06492.