Richard Gavlick

Richard Edward Gavlick, age 88, beloved husband of Irene “Cookie” Gavlick, resident of Stratford, CT and long-time resident of Fairfield, CT, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 15, 2018. His warm smile, witty humor and kindness toward everyone he met lasted until the end. Richard, known as “Dick,” was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
 His memory will be treasured and he will be missed dearly by his wife Cookie; his four loving daughters Linda Heaney (Kevin) of Larchmont, NY, Nancy Cannon (Peter) of Fairfield, Caroline O’Callaghan (Christopher) of Rye, NY, and Susan Ballard (David) of Darien; his eleven adoring grandchildren Matthew and Katherine Heaney, James and William Cannon, Annie Misisco (Matthew), Kerry, Claire and Ellie O’Callaghan, and J.D., Craig, and Paige Ballard; his dear sister Eileen Rindos and many fond nieces and nephews. 
Dick was born in Pittsburgh, PA on December 29, 1929 to the late I.T. and Wanda Gavlick. He was a graduate of Fairfield College Preparatory School, Class of 1948, after which he enlisted in the U.S. Navy assigned to the Candidates School, Great Lakes, IL to study naval electronics.  Following his service, he graduated from the University of Connecticut receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration.
Dick was founder and President/CEO of Gavlick Machinery Corporation, headquartered in Bristol, CT. Founded in 1957, the company specializes in buying and selling surplus machinery and complete plants worldwide. He was a former member of The Patterson Club, Black Rock Yacht Club, University Club, Algonquin Club and Oronoque Country Club.
Dick loved the outdoors…golfing, skiing, boating, swimming and walking in the Fairfield Audubon Society woods with his Black Labrador Retriever “Lad.” Family ski trips became a favorite annual activity. Music was a passion, especially the piano and playing his trumpet. He loved to travel, crossing the globe many times on business and taking a keen interest in learning the languages of many countries he visited. He held his Jesuit education at Fairfield Prep in such high regard and as the best foundation for his family, career, and fellowship with man and God. Family was his top priority and he took pride in his children’s and grandchildren’s accomplishments. He was a thoughtful, compassionate and caring husband, father and grandfather, affectionately known as “Bumpie.” His lessons of love will give us strength and perseverance, which we will hold forever in our hearts.
 Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service on Saturday, Nov. 24, at 11a.m., at St. Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield, CT. There will be no calling hours and interment will be private.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s honor to “Christ at the Center” Sanctuary Project at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 200 Shelton Road, Trumbull, CT 06611 or to Fairfield College Preparatory School, 1073 North Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824.

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