Obituary: Gary N. Noren, 82, Of Black Rock

The following obituary is from Spear-Miller Funeral Home:

Gary N. Noren, 82, of Black Rock, passed away Monday, December 18, 2023, at the Carolton Chronic and Convalescent Hospital. Gary was born February 26, 1941, the only child of Nelson F. and Dorothy E. Noren (Donahue). He grew up in Fairfield, but was always the welcome guest at his grandparents, Hattie (Fancher) and Charlie Noren, in their family home on the water in Black Rock. There Gary developed a lifelong interest in boating and living his life on the water.

As an adult, Gary was lucky enough to make his grandparents’ house his home. Apart from his boats being moored in his backyard, Gary was a product of having been brought up in the 1950’s.

He loved his cars, having owned several classics over the years and was a music listening enthusiast, beginning with early rock & roll and evolving to fondness of classical as an adult. He always was tweeking his audio systems when things could be tuned. Gary was an ice hockey enthusiast from a young age (his dad played in college). He followed the NHL’s original 6 on the radio. Gary was a proud season ticket holder for the New Haven Blades, then the Nighthawks and finally the Bridgeport Soundtigers, which he enjoyed until his health no longer permitted him to attend.

Gary was employed as a custodian and began work with his buddy Paul Kerrigan at Holy Family School when it opened. He then moved on to the Fairfield Public Schools where he was the beloved “Mr. Gary” at Stratfield School and eventually retired as part of the custodial staff at Fairfield Warde High School.

Gary was a lifetime member of the Fayerwether Yacht Club. Gary was a kind and gentle person and a caring friend.

He leaves behind many long time friends and close neighbors including: Paul & Pat Buchbinder of Fairfield; Jill Williams and Dave Toth; the Williams family, Kaye, Barbara, Bruce, Karen, & Rob Burlison; Suzanne Pile; Leo, his Cat now in the loving care of Joe Wilson of Stratford; and, all of his Cryan & Clark Cousins.

Calling hours are Friday, 12/22, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Rd., Fairfield. Interment will be Saturday morning 12/23, 10 a.m., at Lawncroft Cemetery, on Black Rock Tpke. in Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers, family requests memorial contributions be made to Black Rock Community Council-Lighthouse Fund, c/o Burroughs Community Center 2470 Fairfield Ave. Bridgeport CT 06605. To offer an online condolence please visit www.SpearMillerFuneralHome.com.