Michael C. Gerda

Avid Outdoorsman

Michael C. Gerda, 63, a lifelong Fairfield resident, died July 18 at the West Haven Veterans Hospital, with his daughter by his side. Born in Bridgeport, the son of Andrew and Margaret Gerda, he was raised in Fairfield and was a 1963 graduate of Andrew Warde High School.

 Survivors include a brother, Robert Gerda and his wife, Linda, of Sandy Hook; his beloved daughter, Karen Hosford and her husband, George, of Black Rock; a cherished granddaughter, Alexandra Gerda; a niece, Jennifer Gerda; a nephew, Jason Gerda; and his longtime friends, Julia and Dennis Kulish. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his aunt, Frances Gerda.

Following high school, Mr Gerda joined the United States Navy and served during the Vietnam War on board the USS Orion. A carpenter by trade, he most recently worked in the maintenance department at the H. Smith Richardson Golf Course in Fairfield. He was an avid golfer, enjoyed bowling, and especially enjoyed playing bocce. He was instrumental in rebuilding and maintaining the bocce courts on Reef Road. An avid outdoorsman, he loved salt water fishing, and deer and bear hunting.

He was a member of the National Association of Naval Veterans, Port 5, the American Legion Post 143 in Fairfield, and a 22-year member of BPOE Elks Lodge 2220, where he was past Elk of the Year. Mike performed charity work at both the Newington Children’s Hospital and for the Veteran’s Administration.

Friends may greet the family Saturday, August 16, from 1 to 2 pm in the Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield. A funeral service will follow the visitation at 2 pm, with the Reverend Linda Kraft officiating. Military honors will be rendered at the conclusion of the service and a reception will follow at Port 5, 69 Brewster Street, Bridgeport.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either the Alexandra Gerda Education Fund through the funeral director, or to the Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven CT 06516.

The Newtown Bee        August 15, 2008