Rocky Hill Obituary: Gilbert McCusker, 85

Gilbert M. McCusker, of Rocky Hill, passed away peacefully on Thursday May 17, 2018, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Hartford to the late Gerald and Anne (Pelletier) McCusker, he graduated from Bulkeley High School before living in Cincinnati, OH, briefly then settling in Newington. Gilbert served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

He attended the University of Hartford and University of Cincinnati and then partnered with John Mustone to build the John Mustone Company, lighting representatives, selling commercial and industrial lighting. He retired after 50 years in the lighting industry.

Gilbert served on the Newington Town Council from 1963-1979, he was an active member of the Newington Democratic Party, and was involved with the Town's Planning and Zoning Committee. He was a longtime parishioner of Holy Spirit Church where he served as an usher for many years.

He enjoyed reading, politics, traveling, sports, especially the Red Sox. He also enjoyed playing golf and could always be found attending sporting events as well as other functions for his grandchildren.

He looked forward to his Friday lunches with the guys, and spending time with those he loved. His larger than life presence was felt every time he walked into a room singing or whistling. He impacted everyone he met and will be dearly missed by his family.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 54 years, Maryann (Capasso) McCusker, his three devoted children Gerald McCusker of Newington, Karen and husband Dennis Rinaldi of Plantsville and Kelly McCusker of West Hartford, along with four adoring grandchildren, Jordan and Jeremy Rinaldi and Isabella and Mason McCusker who affectionately called him Grampy, a title he wore proudly. He also leaves two sisters-in-law, Jean DeNovellis and Laureen Latimer, many nieces, nephews, including Dan and Mark Seklecki, with whom he shared a special bond, cousins, and countless friends, especially his dear friends, George and Dee Fargo. He was predeceased by his brother, Donald McCusker and his sister, Geraldine Seklecki.

His funeral service will begin on Tuesday, May 22nd, at 9:00 a.m. at the Newington Memorial Funeral Home, 20 Bonair Ave., Newington, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at the Holy Spirit Church, Newington. He will be laid to rest with military honors in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, May 21st, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Newington Memorial.