It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Matthew Mihalek, 73, who died peacefully at his home in Old Saybrook on January 9, 2025.

Gary was born on April 10, 1951, and grew up in Sandy Hook. He attended the prestigious Fairfield College Preparatory School and graduated with his Bachelor of Arts from Southern Connecticut State University. For almost thirty years, he worked as a Forensic Mental Health Assistant with the State of Connecticut and was well known for being the protector, or “Big Dog,” of his unit.

If there was any argument as to who the ULTIMATE sports fan was — Gary would inevitably be the winner. He also enjoyed basking by the shore, tending to his garden, completing crossword puzzles, and grilling the perfect steak for his family and friends. Though not a teacher by trade, Gary had an innate passion for educating those around him.

Gary was a member of the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks #1784 in Westbrook. He was proud to belong to the Elks Club and enjoyed dining on the deck while overlooking the ocean.

Gary is survived by his loving life companion, Debra Wilkie; daughter, Adrianna Mihalek of Albany, N.Y.; mother, Lorraine Mihalek of Sandy Hook; sisters Marlene, Renee and Adrienne; and his two nephews, William and Garrett, all of whom will miss him tremendously.

He was predeceased by his father, Matthew Mihalek.

To honor Gary’s life, calling hours will be held at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street in Newtown, on Wednesday, January 15 from 5 to 7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road in Newtown, at 10:30 am on Thursday, January 16. Interment will follow in St Rose Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Mihalek, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store at honanfh.com. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Vanderbilt Hepatology and Liver and Kidney Transplant Center and/or Yale New Haven Transplant Center.