Evan Geilich, Lifelong Learner, dies at 89

To the deep sadness of his family, Evan Miller Geilich, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2024, at the age of 89.

Evan was born to Harold and Martha Geilich on April 28, 1935, in Brockton, MA and raised in Brookline, MA. He attended high school at Noble and Greenough, and he went on to Harvard College, graduating in 1957 with a major in English, which would continue to be a lifelong interest.

While at Nobles, the head of the school once told him, "Geilich, you need more of that Spartan philosophy," thinking that a more stoic perspective on life would benefit him. Evan would later laugh as he told this story. Yet over time, he grew into a person who embraced many of those ideals. He often reminded those around him and himself that "things could always be a little better, and a whole lot worse." That pragmatism became key to his outlook on life.

Upon graduation from Harvard, Evan went on to Columbia University. He completed one year of his MBA program before being drafted into the Army. He was very proud of his military service. Following his time in the Army, Evan followed his curiosity and went to live in Paris, France. He used the money that he saved from his time in the military to immerse himself in the culture and fun of life abroad. It was here that his love for the French language deepened, a passion that would later shape his career.

After returning to the U.S., he worked as an executive at Geilich Tanning, the family business in Taunton, MA. With the decline of the leather Industry in the U.S., Evan eventually transitioned to importing French furniture. This was his way of combining his love of language, culture, and business. He often worked on his French, and he was very proud to be able to speak it with a native's accent.

In retirement, Evan returned to one of his first loves—writing. He penned five novels, which brought him enormous personal satisfaction. He was tenacious in attempting to get them published. They are on Amazon.

Evan will be remembered for his sense of humor, his work ethic, and his love for his family.

He will be remembered by his wife Grace, his son Devon, his grandson Chase, and his sister Margery. To honor and remember him, his family will seek to perpetuate his admirable happy outlook on life. As he would say, "You don't appreciate good times if you haven't taken some lumps along the way."

Evan was laid to rest during a private burial service on October 24, 2024 at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord.

Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord.