Ralph Gimbut, 82, of Colchester, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Throughout his life, Ralph faced many health challenges, yet he remained strong-willed, optimistic, and full of life. His strength and humor inspired everyone who knew him.

Ralph was born on July 13, 1943, in Norwich, CT, the son of the late Michael and Stella (Cholodowski) Gimbut. He built a beautiful life in Colchester with his soulmate and loving wife, Rosalie (Buccheri) Gimbut, his constant companion and greatest joy. He also shared fond memories with his brother and sister-in-law, Leonard and Delores Gimbut of Salem.

Family was the center of Ralph’s world. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his two daughters and son-in-law, Lisa and Shawn Trott, and Paula Martino, all of Colchester. His grandchildren, Kathryn Kauffman, Jillianne Trott, and Brandon Kauffman, were the light of his life, and he never missed a chance to tell them how proud he was of each of them. To them, he was lovingly known as “Pop-Pop,” a name that will forever bring warmth to their hearts.

Ralph lived a full and meaningful life, guided by love, hard work, and laughter. He spent 37 years working at Electric Boat in Groton, where he took great pride in his work and in the friendships he made along the way. After retiring in 1999, he and Rosalie enjoyed the opportunity to travel the world together, creating lifelong memories. He loved the simple pleasures in life, including fishing, gardening, bowling, and playing cards with friends and family. Ralph’s deep faith was another cornerstone of his life. He was a communicant of St. Andrew Church in Colchester, where he served as a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. Together with Rosalie, he helped start a praesidium of The Legion of Mary, sharing their faith and compassion with others in the community. From his early days as an altar boy to his later years of service, his faith, generosity, and kindness touched everyone around him.

Ralph will be remembered for his warm smile, his quick wit, and his ability to make everyone feel at ease. He brought light and laughter wherever he went, and his positive outlook left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege to know him.

Family and friends may call at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester, on Monday, November 17th at 9 a.m. A Funeral Liturgy will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Andrew Church, 128 Norwich Avenue, Colchester. Burial will occur immediately after in the New St Andrew Cemetery on Gilettes Lane in Colchester.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ralph’s memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association. Ralph lived courageously with diabetes for much of his life, and supporting continued research and care would be a meaningful way to honor his strength and resilience.