Gunnar H. Engstrom

Gunnar H. Engstrom, 65, of Ridgefield, husband of Inga (Boberg) Engstrom, passed away on Wednesday afternoon, March 28, 2007, at Yale-New Haven Hospital.
Mr. Engstrom was born in Stockholm, Sweden on May 1, 1941, a son of Magnus and Gunborg (Sjoding) Engstrom.
Gunnar grew up in Stockholm, Sweden, where he spent his youthful summers fishing and hiking around the beautiful archipelago. In the winter time he enjoyed ice skating and cross-country skiing. He was an avid athlete and won many amateur titles in gymnastics and weight lifting.
After finishing military service, where he continued to be an award-winning athlete, Gunnar pursued his knowledge of metallurgy and fine engineering at his family's dental business (AB John Sjoding). There he assisted in developing many of today's endodontic dental instruments.
In 1982, Gunnar founded JS Dental Manufacturing Inc. in New York City. His family took the big step and moved from Stockholm to Stamford, Conn. in 1983, where they resided for three years before moving to Ridgefield in 1986.
Gunnar saw nature as one of the greatest pieces of art. He supported many organizations that conserved our natural surroundings as well as their inhabitants. A member of the Adirondack Mountain Club, Gunnar enjoyed hiking with friends and family. When not traveling for business, it was not unusual for him to take his family to foreign countries and discover new cultures and customs. His kindness and generous spirit touched everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by family and friends.
In addition to his wife Inga of 42 years, he is survived by two sons: Mats Engstrom and his wife, Karen of New Milford and Krister Engstrom of Danbury; two sisters: Siv Lindstrom of Vancouver, B.C., Canada and Britt Holm of Stockholm, Sweden, and three grandchildren: Andrew, Timothy and Daniel.
Honoring his wishes, services will be private.
Memorial contributions to one's own favorite charity would be appreciated.
Kane Funeral Home, 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield is in charge of arrangements.