Gerald E. Chait

1946 - 2023

Gerald Edward Chait passed away Saturday, June 3, 2023. Born Jan. 9, 1946, he is survived by his wife, Barbara Richey Chait; son, Benjamin Milton Chait and his husband Agostino Guerra, and by his daughter Hanna Richey Chait. He is also survived by his nephew William P. Meehan Jr. (Alyssa Vance Meehan), niece, Sarah Meehan Parker (Stanly Joel Parker) and their son Davis William Parker, sister-in-law Clare Richey Meehan (William P. Meehan Sr.), brothers-in-law, John Randolph Richey (JoAnne Kovalish Richey) and James Matthew Richey (Donna Nudo Richey), cousin Jack Krongold (Eleanor Krongold), cousin Leslie Krongold (Jessica Nussbaum). Gerald was born in Highland Park, the son of Milton and Jean Chait (ne Mashbitz). Gerald was a proud graduate of Peabody High School and went on to receive his B.A. in Philosophy from Cornell University in 1974. Always a thoughtful leader with an innovative mind for business, he was a partner of Giant Eagle Inc. and served on their board for thirty years. He married his lifelong partner, his wife, Barbara Richey Chait, on July 20th, 1990, and they went on to have two children. In his free time, Gerald most enjoyed riding around his favorite neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, sharing stories of his childhood and remarking on how things have changed, often with Steve Miller Band's "Living in the USA" blasting from the car stereo. He was a passionate philanthropist, giving much of his time and resources to local charities in Pittsburgh, and championing Jewish causes and diabetic research initiatives. He passed away peacefully in the early hours of the morning at his home, holding onto his son's hand. Family and community were most important to him, and he clearly made the world a better place with his kind spirit and generosity. Gerald will always be remembered for his quiet benevolence. Services and interment private. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the United Jewish Federation,2000 Technology Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15219and the American Diabetes Association,100 West Station Square Drive, #1900, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel Inc., family owned and operated. www.schugar.com.