Obituary: Brian Clarke Chandler, 76, Of Wallingford

WALLINGFORD, CT — (From Wallingford Funeral Home): Brian Clarke Chandler, 76, of Wallingford, passed away on Friday, September 29, 2023 at his home.

Brian was born in Meriden on May 27, 1947, a son of the late Walter and Ann (neé Fuller) Chandler of Wallingford.

Although Brian was a lifelong resident of Wallingford, he sailed to every corner of the globe after graduating from the Merchant Marine Academy in 1969. Brian served as Chief Engineer on a multitude of large ocean vessels, and received a commission as a Lieutenant JG in the United States Naval Reserve.

Brian had the opportunity to see and experience firsthand the foreign lands, peoples, and cultures that he had read about as a child in his treasured books. He experienced some of the major events of western history and helped to ensure that the United States maintained its economic might by keeping its ships moving.

Brian was fascinated by culture but enjoyed a simple life when he retired. He enjoyed skiing, reading, and arguing about politics - just like any born and bred New Englander. In the end, Brian was married to the Sea, but that didn't stop him from being a dedicated philanthropist - giving faithfully to many charities including Boys Town and the Connecticut Humane Society.

He is survived by his sister, Bonnie McDonald of Durham; his nephews and niece, Bob McDonald of Meriden, John (Catharine) McDonald of Tolland, and Sherie McDonald of Durham - as well as a multitude of grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and cousins. Brian was predeceased by his parents and his best friend (although it would pain him to admit it), his younger brother, Barry Chandler.

Brian's family will receive relatives and friends in The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 N. Main St. Ext., on Thursday, October 12th, from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home at 6 p.m. Interment in St. John Cemetery will be held on Monday, October 16th at 12 noon.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a donation in Brian's name to Boys Town, 14100 Crawford St., Boys Town, NE 68010.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Wallingford Funeral Home here.