Gary Robert Gauruder of Milford, CT passed away at his home on Thursday, October 8, 2020. Over the past several years he battled health challenges with grace and a sense of humor.

Gary was born in Greenwich, CT and grew up in Stamford. He attended the University of Connecticut and Norwalk Community College, earning an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice.

Gary graduated from the Connecticut Police Academy in 1987.  He served as a Wilton, CT Police Officer for fifteen years. During that time, he was the Assistant Police K9 handler, and attended West Virginia Canine College to become certified in Instruction and Police Service Dog Agitation.  Gary also was an advisor to the Wilton Police Explorer Post.   Following his service in Wilton, Gary was an Emergency Dispatcher for the Town of Redding and the South West Regional Communications Center in Bridgeport. At the time of his death, Gary was an Auxiliary Police Officer in the Town of Redding. He also served as the "right hand man" to his wife Naomi's horse show management company, BHC Management.

Gary along with his wife Naomi, were two of the founding board members of the Blue Ribbon Ventures Foundation, an equine charity.  Gary also served for several years as a board member and President of the York Village Homeowner's Association.

Gary will be remembered for his laugh, sense of humor, his love of the UCONN Huskies, and Hooter's wings.  A true gentle giant, he was proud to serve and protect his community, and had an uncanny knack to gracefully handle any upset Pony Mom.

Gary was predeceased by his father John. He is survived by his wife of seventeen years, Naomi, Mom Anna, Brothers John, Karl and Dana, Aunt Grace, along with several cousins, nieces and nephews. In addition, Gary is survived by his law enforcement and emergency services family, his amazing friends and his four-legged children, Morgan, Teddy, Hootie and Harley.

A private burial will be held at Mountain Grove Cemetery in Bridgeport CT.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, October 20 ^th from 4pm-7pm at the Wire Mill Saloon, 12 Old Mill Rd, Redding CT. All family and friends are encouraged to attend, raise a beer or Gary's favorite fruity drink in his honor and share their favorite stories and memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Blue Ribbon Ventures Foundation, c/o Ashley Kapscandi, 60 West Ave, Milford CT 06461. To offer the family online condolences, please visit www.boutonfuneral home.com