Frank J. Gavel, Sr.
Frank J. Gavel, Sr. of Wilton, CT, passed away peacefully on Thursday August 12, 2021. He was 93 years old.
Born on June 4, 1928 in Brooklyn, NY, Frank was the son of the late Louis and Anna (Novak) Gavel. He was educated in a one room schoolhouse in Roxbury, CT and attended Washington High School where he excelled in athletics, especially baseball. After a post-graduate year at The Gunnery, Frank graduated from Colby College in 1951. Frank also served honorably in the United States Marine Corps in Korea during the Korean War. Upon his return, Frank channeled his athletic expertise into a coaching career at Brookfield High School. Later, he became the Director of Athletics and eventually, after earning his Master's Degree at Springfield College, was Vice Principal at B.H.S. for many years. Frank treasured his time with students, both in and out of the classroom.
Frank married the love of his life, Carol Sbarbaro Ribaudo, in 1976. He was a longtime member of the American Legion, was passionate about baseball, having pitched at both Colby College and in the Boston Red Sox farm system, and was a voracious reader. He also cherished spending time with his five grandchildren, and generously shared his academic, athletic, and philosophical wisdom with them.
In addition to his beloved wife, Carol, Frank is survived by his children, Linda Gavel Webb, Frank Joseph Gavel, Jr. (Laurie), Stephen Louis Gavel, Andrea Ribaudo Millard (Greg), and James Keith Ribaudo, as well as his grandchildren, Thomas Joseph Gavel, Rebecca Jane Gavel, Charles Edwin Webb, Charles Edward Francis Millard II, and Katherine Elizabeth Millard. He was predeceased by his brother, Ernest John Gavel.
A private service will be held. Lillis Funeral Home, 58 Bridge Street, New Milford, CT assisted the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in memory of Frank to The Roxbury Land Trust, P.O. Box 51, Roxbury, CT 06783.