Olivia Nancy Gombar

February 26, 2024

We regretfully announce the departure of our dear sister, Olivia Nancy Gombar (nee Pezza), on February 26, 2024, after a long illness. She was born on September 24, 1947, in Framingham, MA, and grew up in Fairfield, CT. Her primary residence was in Stratford CT, where she raised her family, participated in local politics, and was an educator in the neighboring city of Bridgeport.

Olivia is survived by her two sons, Mark James and Michael Joseph Gombar, and two granddaughters, Madalyn and Aubrey Gombar, in addition to three sisters, Theresa Hennessey, Cecile Pezza, and Michele Norton, plus one brother, Mariner Pezza. She was predeceased by her parents, James J. and Cecilia M. Pezza, and her husband, Mark A. Gombar.

Olivia was an active member of every community in which she resided. After a thirty-year career teaching elementary school in Bridgeport, CT, she transitioned to librarian, where she established computerized libraries in several schools. Upon retiring, she became an Emergency Medical Technician, and served with the Stratford Volunteer EMS Association. For fun and health reasons, our sister participated in long-distance running events, including the New York Marathon and the Portland Marathon in Oregon. Eventually, Olivia retired to the Villages in Florida and enjoyed the good life for several years.

We, her immediate relatives, and all those whom she touched, will miss her dearly and will carry her cherished memory. A private memorial service will be held at the family gravesite in Framingham, MA.