It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gary William Fruin, who died peacefully on Jan. 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer. He was 68 years old.
Gary was born in 1956 in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Jeanne (Zhender) and John C. Fruin. He grew up with a huge loving family in Naugatuck, Connecticut. He was the younger brother of John (Jack) Fruin, who was 10 years his senior.
Gary’s early years in Connecticut laid the foundation for a life marked by adventure, travel, passion, and a deep connection to community.
In 1980, at the age of 24, Gary made the bold decision to move to Santa Barbara, California, where he was inspired by the beauty of the city (with many, many palm trees – his favorite!!) and its welcoming atmosphere…