Gary Ronald Lehrman, 82, passed away on January 5 at Connecticut Hospice in Branford, Connecticut. He was formerly a resident of Commonwealth Senior Living at Haddam, where he lived with his beloved wife, Jan, until her recent passing.

Born March 13, 1943, in Connecticut to Rae and Hy Lehrman, Gary was raised in Manchester. He earned a BA in Psychology from the University of Hartford in 1965 and enjoyed a long career in human resources with organizations including CIGNA, United Cerebral Palsy of Connecticut, the Town of Old Saybrook, and others.

A true renaissance man, Gary loved sailing, woodworking, building, fine dining, art, and travel. He proudly crewed in the Newport-Bermuda Race and volunteered with Special Olympics Connecticut sailing events in support of his stepdaughter Diane. He learned to embrace the joy and chaos of Jan's large family, but he especially loved being "Poppy" to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gary was predeceased by his wife of 40 years, Janice Koehler Lehrman, who was the love of his life. He is survived by her five children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, and dear friends.

A private burial was held. Donations may be made to Special Olympics Connecticut or High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The New Haven Register from Jan. 6 to Jan. 7, 2026.