Irving Harold De Graw

Irving graduated from William L. Dickinson High School in Jersey City, NJ; did his undergraduate studies at Notre Dame, and University of State of New York; received his MBA at UConn where he was Beta Gamma Sigma; and his DBA at Nova Southeastern University.

He built careers with American Express; Chesebrough-Ponds; Dun & Bradstreet; and taught as a professor at Eckerd College, Washington College in Chestertown, MD, and St. Petersburg College in St. Petersburg, FL.

Irving’s beloved focus included his family, family history, teaching, consulting & research, and the Arts – especially music & drama.

He is predeceased by his parents, Marilyn Elizabeth Fenn and Irving Harold DeGraw. He is survived and missed by his wife, Linda; adult children, Lisa Bridreau, Ronald, Russ, & Noel; cherished grandchildren, Jessica and Justin Bridreau, and Elizabeth, Skylar, Braden, Zara, and Aiden DeGraw; and siblings, Marilyn, JoAnn, and Scheryl.

Irv DeGraw’s own words from June 22, 2013 – High School Reunion: “Growing our family has been first priority – and they are the absolute center of our lives. Have been very lucky to have found the “right wife” who just makes everything work. After 20 years in Fairfield City, CT (which we also loved), we moved South to Sarasota, FL. Along the way, have advanced my education, adding an MBA and DBA. Have also now had 3 careers, encompassing: 1- large business in CT & NYC (building organizations, M&A, new products, treasury, crazy travel, etc.; 2- entrepreneurship (starting & fixing several businesses, achieving recognition as an IPO expert); 3- Finally, a full-time academic career. We’ve endured some scary health challenges along the way – BUT at this point, do NOT expect to ever retire.”

Memorial contributions may be made: TideWell Hospice, Inc. or Church of the Nativity at (941)355-3262.