Carl E. Gissel
Carl “Buzz” Ernest Gissel, 92, of Milford, CT, passed away on December 2, 2023, at the VA hospital in West Haven after a short illness. Born on September 9, 1931, in Mount Carmel, PA, to Carl and Violet Wolfgang Gissel, Buzz was a dedicated and humble man who provided guidance and served as an example to his sons and all who knew him.
Buzz proudly served his country during the Korean War in Africa. After his military service, Buzz had a successful career and retired from Heim Bearing Company in Fairfield, where he was a General Supervisor. He also worked at Raybestos Company in Stratford.
A confirmed bachelor, Carl met Carol in 1973. The young widow and mother of four boys changed his life forever. As he would say “the boys came with the package”. The life he built for them included a cottage in the Berkshires where friends and family would gather and where he began fishing. Some of the best times included family and friends sleeping on every couch and floor space available to share time together.
In his free time, Buzz enjoyed playing softball and golf as a younger man and more recently, cards, walking club, traveling and family get-togethers. He was an avid follower of the UConn women’s basketball, and one of his more memorable trips included seeing them play in the final four.
Buzz was an active member of his community. As a member of St. Mary’s parish, he found solace and strength in his faith. He enjoyed helping with Christmas decorations at the church and volunteering for shelter dinners. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and performed volunteer work at Milford Hospital for several years.
Buzz is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Gissel, of forty-nine years; and his sons, Thomas (Audrey), Kenneth (Marty), David ( Jackie), Corey (Patti); and cherished grandchildren Patrick, Daniel, Cade and Jaiden Williams. He is also survived by his brother, David Gissel, sister Carlean Shomper, and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Buzz was preceded in death by his siblings Eleanor Brittingham, Virginia O’Connor, and many brothers and sisters-in-law.
Please join us in remembering Buzz and celebrating his life.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Church, 70 Gulf St., Milford (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Military Honors will be rendered at the conclusion of mass. Interment will be private.