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Frank K. Gowdy Jr.

FUNERAL HOME

Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels & Cremation Services

61 South Road

Enfield, Connecticut

Frank Gowdy Obituary

Frank Kibbe Gowdy, Jr., a longtime mathematics teacher at East Windsor High School, died last week in the house he built in Melrose. Born May 19, 1939, in Enfield to Frank Kibbe Gowdy, Sr. and Ruth (Duprey), Frank and his sister, Betty, grew up on a potato and tobacco farm. He attended the one room Wallop School, but it was on the farm that he acquired his green thumb and his knack for fixing just about anything. He narrowly escaped a brush with disaster at the age of 5 when he survived the Great Hartford Circus Fire. Frank could fit in with any group of people. He was funny, smart and unforgettable. The highlight of his week was Wednesday, when he would play cards, have lunch and fish with the gang at the Stafford Fish and Game Club. He also served on the East Windsor Planning and Zoning Commission for many years. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 43 years, Diane (Sjostedt) (Herrick). They taught together, traveled together and had a full, joyous life together. Along with his wife, his cherished children, Beth (Hanna), Ruth (Gowdy), Kris (Bowsza), and Rob Herrick were with him in his final days. Although they weren't present, his first wife, Ginger Jones, and his youngest daughter, Sarah, were with him in spirit. Frank was predeceased by his parents, his sister, his sister-in-law, Nancy and his son, Matthew. Services honoring Frank will be held on Monday, June 30th from 4-6 at Leete-Stevens Funeral Home, 61 South Rd, Enfield, CT. A Mass of Christian burial will be held Tuesday, July 1st at 10 a.m. at St. Michael's Church, 128 Maple St, in East Longmeadow, MA 01028. (please meet directly at church). Frank will be buried in the Melrose Cemetery. Please consider a donation in Frank's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of your choice. To leave an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.leetestevens.com

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Published by WFSB on Jun. 18, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Frank Gowdy

16 Entries

Joel Schneid

June 27, 2025

I first me Frank when I started my teaching job at East Windsor HS in 1973. He was friendly and seemed very knowledgeable about house construction. Since I was planning to build a home that summer, I had several questions- especially about electrical inspections. Frank shared that he was a licensed electrician and had a business doing that work for several years. And then, he offered to help me- even though I was building in Florence, MA. He said it was not a problem and could help me out on weekends and school vacations. Frank said he could be available whenever I needed him. Except for one thing, "NO PAINTING!". The house passed all inspections and as Frank and I worked together we became good friends. I continued to work with Frank as he built his house in Broad Brook, along with his daughter´s and assisted him on many small jobs.
I learned much from Frank- as a colleague, a mentor and a friend.
I miss him greatly. It was my honor to have known him.

Mary Stacy

June 26, 2025

Our deepest sympathy to Diane in the loss of her husband.

With love from,
Mary Stacy
and her son, Michael Stacy

Lois Grant Audinot

June 24, 2025

So very sorry to learn of Mr. Gowdy's passing. Like many East Windsor students of a certain era, he was my algebra teacher for a couple of years. But he was also a fellow Melrose resident and a distant cousin. He used to tease me in class by saying "Melrose smells like a rose because of Lois' cows," referring to my family's dairy farm.

George Grant

June 24, 2025

I liked Mr. Gowdy a lot and wish I'd gotten to know him better. It was only after I graduated that I realized that besides a teacher, he was also a cousin and grew up only a half mile from where I did.

Sandra Coelho

June 24, 2025

Blessings, dear long time friend and co-worker. May you rest in peace! And heart felt sympathy to you, Frank´s wife, Diane, who is also my dear long time friend and co-worker. My prayers are with you and your family!

Scott Kaplan

June 22, 2025

Diane, so sorry to hear about Frank. I never actually worked with him but kind of "inherited him" in the shop at school. It only took one visit to turn that into a great friendship. He will definitely be missed. If I can do anything for you, just let me know.

John Mayo

June 22, 2025

As a rookie teacher at East Windsor High School I always enjoyed talking to Frank. He always had some good advice to give to anyone willing to listen. I also enjoyed seeing him at athletic events. He will be missed.

Daniel Castelli

June 22, 2025

Hello Diane,
Olenka and I extend our deepest condolences to you and your loved ones.
There wasn't a day that went by that I didn't see Frank. He'd stop in the tech ed area, eat lunch with us or we'd pass in the hall. He was person that had a depth of knowledge about so many things. He'd always ask about my family; I can remember your face light up when seeing Frank or giggle when talking about him. He was the whole package; a dedicated teacher & mentor, a skilled craftsman, loving husband and family man. He will be missed, but not forgotten.

Kris Bowsza

June 22, 2025

Diane - How lucky you were to have the gift of time. May every single moment come back to you with joy, love and a heart at peace. And from my heart, thank you. Your insight has given me peace. May light perpetual shine upon him.

Lisa and Dean Dagnoli

June 22, 2025

Diane so very sorry to hear of Franks passing. He was a warm and kind person and will be remembered and missed. My parents truly love you both and all the special memories you made together. I’m so sorry and we are thinking of you.

Joe and Maria cezus

June 21, 2025

Diane, Maria and I were shocked to read Frank's passing over the rainbow. You brought out the best in him, and boy, did he love you. If someone needed a hand or help, Frank would be there. Cherish your priceless memories for they will keep you grounded and strong. You are in our prayers and thoughts, roomie. Pax tibia, friend.

Phil Morton

June 21, 2025

Frank was a friend, colleague and partner in helping to provide an environment where young people grow and experience life while being educated. I could always count on Frank for support and the willingness to consider everyone´s point of view even if different from his.
Always enjoyed his company unfortunately did not spend enough time together after our retirements but I will "always" have fond memories of those times when we laughed and reminisced together.
Bless you Di in these tough days, been there and know the heartbreak.

Kate Belhumeur

June 21, 2025

Diane, I´m sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kate

Marilyn Gaskell

June 20, 2025

My husband Don and Frank grew up and attended school together in early years, Later Frank and Diane Don and I spent great times together. My condolences and heartfelt prayers to Diane and their families! Love Marilyn

Kathy and Tom Veratti

June 20, 2025

Take comfort in all your many memories. He was an exceptional friend, father, husband, teacher, grandfather and fisherman. His many "Frankisms" are a special part of our memories.

Marilyn Cleveland

June 19, 2025

Di, I am sending love at this difficult time. Frank was always so cheerful and welcoming when I came to visit. He gave so much as a teacher, active citizen, and to his family. Love you loads, Your cousin, Marilyn

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