Gavin Anderson — the British-born naturalized US citizen who served Westport in countless ways since moving here in 1977 — died early today, after a long illness. He was 74.
Gavin was elected to the Board of Finance, and served on the Board of Selectmen. He was also chair and member of the First Selectman’s Maintenance Committee, and the Sherwood Mill Pond Committee.
An accountant with Colgate Palmolive, he worked around the world. For the last 35 years, Westport has been his home — and a place he served with energy, passion, grace and integrity.
“06880” readers are invited to click “Comments” to offer condolences and share memories of Gavin Anderson.
Gavin was an energetic, enthusiastic and highly spirited person. For many years, he generously shared his ample talents with our town. I feel lucky to have worked with him on the Sherwood Mill Pond Committee, but most of all I will miss his colorful sea stories and watching him sail his little boat on the Mill Pond.
One of the truly “Great Guys.”
God Bless…
A true gentleman. When Gavin spoke, people listened. Gavin had the ability to cut through the fluff and get right to the heart of the matter. I benefited greatly from the advise he was happy to offer. Westport has lost a strong leader.
I will certainly miss Gavin – there was just so much unexpected to and about him. How said for our town – and of course his family and friends – to have lost this truly good person from our midst. Rest in peace.
While I did not know Mr. Anderson personally, whenever I encountered him in public, I always found him to be so very polite, gentlemanly, kind and attentive. I also know of his involvement in many causes here in town and his sincere desire to be of help.
My deepest sympathies on his passing, Mrs. Anderson. Westport mourns your sweet prince… We share in your loss.
I’d share my foxhole with Gavin.
My understanding is that is THE supreme compliment, coming from a Veteran. I bet Gavin is smiling, from Heaven. 🙂
How very sweet.
He was a class act and will be missed by all!
An absolute class act. Gavin never lacked passion, but still collected friends and admirers from all sides, whatever the outcome of the matter at hand – I doubt we’ll see another like him. What a loss.
Gavin was a former member of the Royal Navy and not merely an accountant, he was a Chartered accountant (which is the US CPA equivalent). He was mostly, a righteous man.
Yes, when he spoke, people listened. He, in turn, was a superb listener. Whenever I talked to him about town issues, he gave me his undivided attention. Although he and I were on opposite political sides, he always treated me with respect and I will always respect him. I will miss him very much.
My husband and I had the pleasure of knowing Gavin for the past 24 years. We got to know him well when about 10 of us sailed from Connecticut to Florida in 1989. The trip took about 7 days and each day we had our daily Royal Navy “tot” of Rum with the toast lead by Gavin. He truly cared and was passionate about Westport and everyone he met along the way. Our thoughts go out to you, Kendall.
Susan Walton Wynkoop
I extend my deepest sympathies to the Anderson family.
Gavin was a true Westporter and offered so much good to this town by his being here. He will be dearly missed for both his knowledge and grace….and poetry.
Gavin knew his way around town government and the town budget like nobody else. He knew what rock to look under for possible funding, and he could always provide strategies to the uninitiated about how to win support (endorsements, positive decisions and funding) from the right people. I admired his vision, enthusiasm, and instinct for what could (and did) make Westport a better place. Whenever we’d cross paths on various town committees, or we’d show up in the same place to provide input to a town project, his presence was always notable, and his insights were always beneficial. His legacy will endure all over Westport through the many projects, both subtle and grand, that he helped move forward. He will be missed by many.
What a gem of a fellow.
Will be badly missed!
I could not agree more!
Over the many years I knew Gavin, my appreciation and love for the man grew continuously.
A diamond in the rough!
Peace be with you good friend!