Obituary: Alan “Al” Gilman, 69, of Branford

Obituary courtesy of Shoreline Cremation

Alan “Al” Gilman, 69 of Branford, loving husband of Karen Gilman, died June 24, 2022 at Yale New Haven Hospital. Born in Middletown to the late Norman and Mary Gilman on May 9, 1953, Al graduated from Portland High School and Middlesex Community College.

Al retired after 40 years working for Pratt and Whitney both in Middletown and East Hartford. He began his career as a jet engine metalsmith and earned his apprenticeship in 1975, further becoming a well-respected lead supply auditor.

He earned his deep-sea divers license and SCUBA dove many places around the world, including The Great Barrier Reef. Al loved traveling and was fortunate enough to travel the world throughout his career and with Karen. He was an avid Harley-Davidson rider for more than 40 years and always enjoyed a ride with his wife and friends whenever he could. He had a love for the martial arts and became a fifth-degree black belt in Hapkido and Shorin Ryu karate.

One of many reasons Al was so loved, was because of his sense of humor and witty joke telling. His beloved friends and family will miss "Adventures with Al."

Al was predeceased by his brother Norman.

Besides his loving wife Karen of Branford, he leaves behind his son Alan (Christeen) Jr., grandchildren Leo and Eli of Old Saybrook, stepson Derek Bazar and step-granddaughter Flora of Haddam Neck, step-daughter Amanda Bazar and step-grandson Luxeton Langley of Middletown, CT brother Ken (Pat) Gilman of Jacksonville Florida, a sister Kate Alexander, of Lebanon, CT and many nieces and nephews.

Al’s family will welcome friends for a visitation at Shoreline Cremation 425 Main St., East Haven, CT on Wednesday, July 6, 2022 from 4pm-7pm. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.