Stuart Richard Small

Stuart Richard Small, age 90, of Bloomfield, Connecticut, died on March 5, 2025. Born in Hartford to David and Freda (Meirowitz) Small, he was known throughout his life for his generosity and his deep love of nature.

He graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1957 and served as owner and CEO of Colonial Spring Company for more than four decades. Stuart was married to the love of his life, Arline Kaplan, for 67 years. He is survived by Arline, their son Mark (Kerry Rosenthal), daughter Debbie Swartz (Richard), grandchildren David, Elizabeth, Rachel, Gabrielle, and Isaac, great-grandchildren Maya, Reese, Theo, Wesley, and Samuel, and his brother and sister-in-law, Gilbert and Ruth Small.

An avid traveler, hiker, skier, and golfer, Stuart belonged to the Appalachian Mountain Club, pursued photography with passion, and was a pioneer and enthusiastic supporter of holistic medicine. He adored his family, remained remarkably resourceful, and could repair almost anything. He took great pleasure in shopping at Costco, buying food in bulk, and nourishing those he loved. Stuart sponsored classes for UConn medical students at Bastyr University of Naturopathic Medicine to encourage future physicians to consider all healing modalities. A lifelong advocate for justice and the environment, he supported the ACLU, Southern Poverty Law Center, Sierra Club, Appalachian Mountain Club, and numerous Jewish causes. Always championing the underdog, he performed random acts of kindness freely for anyone in need.