Obituary: David Joseph Gerardi, 68; Formerly Of Hamden

David Joseph Gerardi, 68, of Milford, CT, beloved husband of Maureen Oliver Gerardi, passed away unexpectedly on March 17, 2025. Dave was born on June 26, 1956, in New Haven, CT to the late Lorraine Mazzei Mulligan.

In addition to his wife of 37 years, Dave is survived by his three children: Morgan McDonald (Daniel), Connor Gerardi (Katie), and Griffin Gerardi (Makayla), and his grandson Miles McDonald, whom he adored. He is also survived by his two sisters, Linda Gibbs and Susan Stout; his mother-in-law, Barbara Oliver; his sister-in-law, Deborah Clifford (James); and his brothers-in-law, Kevin Oliver (Lori), Robert Oliver, and Patrick Oliver (Cynthia). As well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, including his goddaughter, Kaitlin Oliver. Dave was predeceased by his brother, Alan Gerardi, and his parents.

Growing up, Dave lived in Hamden, CT, with his mother Lorraine and stepfather Thomas Mulligan, who raised him as his own. From a young age Dave loved cooking, a passion that he carried throughout his life. He graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and was a skilled chef for many restaurants, including two of his own. It was while working at Scribner’s, in New Haven, that he met the love of his life. After a chance encounter when Maureen arrived for her evening waitressing shift and Dave was leaving his morning shift, they locked eyes, and the rest is history. Maureen and Dave were engaged nine months into dating and went on to be married in May of 1988 and set their roots in Milford, CT, to raise their family.

Dave's career transitioned from chef to food and advertising sales, leading to his dream job 18 years ago as a Senior Sales Executive for BG Lubri-Care Distributors. He was consistently one of the top salesmen handling many of their most important customers.

He also had a deep appreciation for bringing his family together, especially over meals he proudly prepared. He loved hosting and cooking the yearly Thanksgiving feast with his famous stuffing and gravy.

Golf was Dave’s passion. He played nearly three times a week with family, friends, or clients. He also enjoyed watching the PGA all weekend long. A true sports enthusiast, he could always be found in his favorite chair rooting for the Rangers, Giants, and Yankees. Though he enjoyed attending games in person, he often joked that he already had the “best seat in the house."

Above all, Dave’s greatest joy and accomplishment was being a husband, father, and grandfather. He will be remembered for his unwavering love and devotion to his family. While he was sometimes a man of few words, his kindness and warmth spoke volumes to those who knew him best.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Church, 70 Gulf St, Milford, CT 06460 (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association online at www.donatenow.heart.org

To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com