Gary Winch

Gary Winch, 70, of Colchester passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of November 19, 2021, following a six-week, fiercely fought battle with cancer. He fought the disease with the same dignity and strength that was ever-present in his life. Gary was the son of the late John and Alice (Newman) Winch of Glastonbury. He is survived by his wife Dorothy (Dadona) Winch and his son, Kevin. Gary was predeceased by his daughter, Julie, infant son, Casey, and sister Joyce Brockelbank.  He leaves behind his siblings John Winch and Gail & Art Cinea of Florida; family members Bob and Linda Dadona, Richard and Marybeth Dadona, and Mark Coleman; dear friends Judy Mattson and Dave & Nancy Piella; along with many loving nieces and nephews. Gary grew up in Glastonbury, where he met his wife, Dorothy, and spent time welding trucks and cars in the Dadona’s yard with Dorothy’s brother, Bob. Gary soon became a regular at family dinners and he and Dorothy were married on May 8, 1982. After finding the perfect property in Colchester, they built their home and raised their children there. A 1969 graduate of Glastonbury High School and a welder by trade he worked at United Technologies Research Center for 24 years. Gary was known as “technician extraordinaire” by the highly specialized staff he worked with. His work focused on the development of high-performance heat exchangers for Carrier. He was a resource for other technicians because of his outstanding welding skills. His technical know-how led him to be awarded more than six U.S. patents Gary was an active member of Boy Scout Troop 109 in Colchester for many years. He was the “Popcorn Kernal” in charge of sales for the Troop and assisted with Eagle Scout projects and coordinating camping trips. He was also a founding member of and instrumental in the purchase and construction of C.A.S.T.L.E. - a highly regarded daycare center in Colchester. He served on the Board and volunteered many hours over the years. Gary was a kind, caring person and was known for greeting people with a strong handshake and a big smile. Whether it was about something mechanical or life, Gary enjoyed sharing his broad-based wisdom with others. He was always quick to lend a hand.  When he was initially diagnosed, Gary made it a point to visit a group of work friends, imploring them to start spending their money and living life.  The family is grateful for the family and friends who have supported them during this difficult time. At Gary’s request, no formal wake or funeral will be held. But you can bet a  “A Celebration of Life” is being planned for a future date. His legacy will live on in everyone he knew and loved.  Donations in Gary’s name may be made to: Goodwin University, ATTN: Goodwin Foundation, 1 Riverside Dr.,East Hartford, CT  06118  Please note, CT River Academy Advanced Manufacturing Program. The Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home of Colchester has been entrusted with care of arrangements.  For online condolences, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com  

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