WOODBURY — Gary J. Frenette, age 70, passed away with his wife and daughter by his side on April 11, 2025. Gary was born in Bridgeport to Edmond J. (“Cy”) and Shirley (Shippee) Frenette.

Gary grew up in Sandy Hook and graduated from Newtown High School, class of 1973. He was co-captain of the wrestling team, where in his senior year he amassed a record of 19 wins and 1 loss. He advanced to the state championships, but an injury made him unable to compete.

Gary attended Mattatuck Community College where he majored in criminal justice, graduating in 1977. He then went to work for Newtown Police Department as a civilian dispatcher. From there he went to work for the State of Connecticut as an Agency Police Officer at Fairfield Hills Hospital in 1982. He also graduated from the CT Police Academy in the same year.

He proudly received an Emergency Life Saving Award in 1987 for saving a client’s life. Gary retired in 1991 and returned to Naugatuck Valley Community College, receiving a degree in paralegal studies. Shortly thereafter, he commenced work for the Town of Newtown in May 1998 as a Zoning Enforcement Officer. He continued working for 19 years.

Gary was a devoted animal lover, having several cats and dogs over his lifetime, including his beloved springer spaniels, Becky, Molly, and Gracie. He was an expert movie and television trivia buff, he enjoyed country western music, and was a lover of all things related to trucks. He had an endearing sense of humor and enjoyed making people laugh with his jokes. Above all, he was a devoted family man, and a loyal friend. He will be forever in our hearts.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Mary (Zipoli) of 40 years, and their precious daughter, Julianna Therese. He is also survived by his sister Susan (Ron) Berube of Myrtle Beach, S.C., and his beloved nieces and nephew.

Gary’s family would like to express their love and appreciation to his special friend, Nana, for his years of caring and devotion.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for Gary on April 16 at St Rose of Lima Church in Newtown. Family received visitors at the church prior to Mass. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are asked to be forwarded to Tunnel to Towers Foundation at t2t.org; or to an animal shelter of one’s choice. To leave a message of remembrance, visit CarpinoCares.com.