Herbert T. Ekblade

Herbert T. Ekblade of Branford died Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Connecticut Hospice. He was the beloved husband of Gail Ekblade, together they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage.

Mr. Ekblade was born in New Haven on January 5, 1938, a son of the late Harry R. and Alice L. Ferguson Ekblade. He was a graduate of Quinnipiac College and proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves. Following college, Herbert worked as an account executive for O.M. Scott & Sons. He later branched out on his own, founding 95 Wholesale Nursery in Orange, Connecticut. He eventually joined his family's automobile business, Ekblade Oldsmobile in Hamden, where he served as General Sales Manager for many years. He also worked for Tremonte Cadillac before retiring.

In retirement, Herbert embraced the simple pleasures he loved most. He was a devoted New York Giants and Boston Red Sox fan, found great enjoyment spending hours working on puzzles, especially loved playing bocce with his friends, and looked forward to their Thursday group lunches, which he truly cherished. He and Gail also spent many wonderful winters at Vista Del Lago in Stuart, Florida, creating lasting memories.

In addition to his wife, Gail, he is survived by his children, Wendi Ekblade of San Diego, CA, Cindy (Anthony) Castellon of Branford, and Scott (Susan) Ekblade of Denver, CO. He was predeceased by his siblings, Carl Ekblade and Karen Kelley.

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation Wednesday evening from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at the W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford.