Gordon Thomas Calano

1929 - 2018

Gordon Thomas Calano

Hobe Sound, FL

Gordon Thomas Calano died peacefully in his sleep in Hobe Sound, Florida, on April 9, 2018. He was 88. In his twilight years, he enjoyed Westerns, UConn Husky basketball games, a good meal, and the comforts of his own home.

Gordon is survived by his wife, Shirley Calano, a devoted caregiver and fun-loving companion; his two children, Robin Brodie (husband, Stephen Brodie) and Jimmy Calano (wife, Gillian Goodman); his stepson, Bob Calano (wife, Erin Calano); his nephew, David Holmes; his niece, Lisa Brey; and his grandchildren, James, Brandon, Tommy, Carsen, Lindsey, Andy, and Kaylie. He is preceded in death by his sister, Janet Holmes.

Gordon was born on July 1, 1929, in Hartford, Connecticut. He graduated from East Hartford High School in 1947 and from the University of Connecticut in 1951, leaving soon after for Korea, where he served in the army for two years as a war correspondent and earned a Purple Heart. One of his most treasured memories was acting as Marilyn Monroe's personal escort while she entertained the troops.

Following military service, Gordon taught English and history at East Hartford High before launching Calano Furniture with his former wife and business partner, Loretta Moir Dienst. He spent five decades in the furniture industry. Involved in the local community throughout that time, he was past president of both the East Hartford Chamber of Commerce and the East Hartford Rotary Club.

Gordon had a myriad of talents and interests. He supported himself through college as a jazz drummer and bandleader, playing weekend engagements. A passionate boater, he served in the coast guard auxiliary in Deerfield Beach well into his 70s-there was no place he'd rather be than on the sea, in the sun and the wind. An active volunteer at the Lyric Theater in Stuart, Florida, Gordon loved a great show. And he certainly adored his four-legged pets.

His children remember their father as a hardworking, enterprising parent who taught them the value of diligence and perseverance. Friends and family knew him as a mischievous charmer, an engaging storyteller (most of his tales were true), a teaser and pleaser, and a kind, generous man.

Gordon's ashes will be buried in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, alongside his parents and sister. The family is grateful for condolences but declines flowers and donations.