Philip E. Gosselin

GOSSELIN, Philip E. Philip E. Gosselin, of Southington, beloved husband of Sylvia (Cassolino) Gosselin, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning (November 8, 2009), after a valiant battle with cancer. He was 80. Born in New Britain, Philip was son of the late Joseph and Albina (Belliveau) Gosselin. He attended St. Mary School and graduated from New Britain High School in 1948. Phil continued his education at the Julius Hartt School of Music, majoring in the study of woodwind instruments. Phil was employed for many years by New England Aircraft in Farmington, retiring as a Quality Control Inspector in 1990. He was a longtime member of the B.P.O.E. Order of Elks and a dedicated parishioner of St. Dominic Church in Southington for more than 30 years. Phil served his country in the United States Air Force from 1951 - 1954, with two years of duty in Guam. An accomplished and highly respected musician, Phil was a life member of the Musician's Union Local 400. He first performed with the Lake Compounce Band in Bristol at the age of 13 and was also a member of the United States Air Force Concert and Jazz Bands. Throughout his life, Phil performed with several big bands and was known for his keen proficiency in reading music. Phil was one of the founders of the New Vintage Band which performed regularly at the Farmington Marriott as well as throughout Connecticut for several years. Philip leaves his devoted wife and best friend of 46 years, Sylvia. He also leaves his dear sister and brother-in-law, Loretta and Bernie Bednarczyk of New Britain. Uncle Phil was deeply loved and held significant place in the lives of his nieces and nephews and their families. He leaves to mourn his passing Cheri and John Robertson of New Jersey, Beth and Andrew Elersich of Ohio, Denise Colwick of Plainville, Debbie and Dr. Richard Smith of Rhode Island, Peggy Taricani of New Britain, Danny Cassolino of Wethersfield, Mary-Lynn and Fred Monsees of New Britain and Gerianne and Jim Casey of Texas. He also leaves nine great nieces and nephews; three great great nieces and many, many close friends. He was predeceased by his nephew, Geoffrey Colwick in 2004. All who knew and loved Phil were blessed by his goodness. Rest in peace, Uncle Goose. Calling hours will be held Tuesday 4-7 p.m. at Carlson Funeral Home, 45 Franklin Square, New Britain. A Memorial Mass will be Wednesday 10 a.m. at St. Jerome Church, 1010 Slater Road, New Britain and all friends are invited to join the family at the church. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations may be made to the George Bray Cancer Center, 100 Grand St., New Britain, CT 06050. Please share a memory or note of sympathy at www. carlsonfuneralhome.com