Joseph Gawrys

Joseph A. Gawrys VIRGINIA BEACH - Joseph Anthony Gawrys, J.D., husband of Leigh Gawrys and a resident of Virginia Beach, passed away in his home Dec. 8, 2008, from complications due to Parkinson's disease. Born in Lawrence, Mass., he was the son of John and Francis Gawrys. A graduate of the University of Virginia Law School, he was a longtime senior partner for the law firm of Vandeventer Black LLP, practicing law in the Tidewater area for more than 40 years. Mr. Gawrys was a naval aviator; retired Capt. United States Navy Reserves and former commanding officer of Naval Reserve Squadron TACRON 40R1. He was a consummate pilot and former president of the Lawyer Pilot Bar Association. His love of flying was only superceded by his love for his family, above all, his grandchildren who brought him many moments of joy and happiness. He was an enthusiastic golfer and equestrian and enjoyed riding his horse on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Other than his wife, survivors include son, David Gawrys; son and granddaughter, Charles and Karlyn Gawrys; son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, John, Jennifer, Amanda and Timothy Gawrys; daughter and grandson, Judy and Marc Sodervick; daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Lloyd Goodbread; daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren, Laura, Rick, Parker and Elliott McKee; and son and daughter-in-law, Harry and Wili Engel. He is also survived by brothers, John and Edward Gawrys. The family would like to thank Vanessa Oreyimba, Isabelle Walter and Meli Mabunga for their loving care of Mr. Gawrys and dignified support to his family. His ashes will be proudly interred with honors at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Memory tributes may be sent to: In memory of Joseph Gawrys, Seton Youth Shelters, 3333 Virginia Beach Blvd., No. 28, Virginia Beach, VA 23452.