Obituary of Frederick L. Gilson

Frederick L. Gilson died peacefully at his home in Vero Beach, FL on Thursday August 2, 2007 with son Peter at his side. Predeceased by his wife, Ondy, and survived by his sons Peter D. Gilson, of Vero Beach, FL, and John L. Gilson of Clifton Park, NY. Fred had a lengthy and distinguished career in the broadcasting industry, beginning with CBS films in domestic sales, managing offices in Atlanta and St. Louis. Returning to New York, he worked for twenty years with CBS/Viacom, moving up to positions in England, Switzerland, and Canada. In 1978 he joined Columbia Pictures Television Distribution as Vice President and General Manager, based in Sherman Oaks, CA. Fred eventually formed his own distribution company, Gilson International, headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, handling worldwide distributions of MTM productions as well as special events such as Live Aid and others, until he retired to New Canaan, CT and eventually Vero Beach, FL. Fred was born in New Haven, CT and went to school at Canterbury School in New Milford CT and Trinity College in Hartford CT. After graduating from Trinity, Fred proudly served four years in the United States Air Force. A Service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, August 18, 2007, at 11:00 AM at the Edward Lawrence Funeral Home, 2119 Post Road, Darien, CT. Interment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery in Darien. An amazing gentlemen and father, Fred will be deeply missed by his many friends, colleagues and sons. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canterbury School, New Milford CT. Funeral Home: Edward Lawrence Funeral Home 2119 Post Road Darien, CT USA 06820