Brigitte Kalish

Mrs. Kalish was born on September 6, 1932 in Glaserhau, Czechoslovakia. Her family moved to Linz, Austria during the war, and Brigitte came to the United States at the age of 19, and embraced becoming a United States Citizen, and all America could offer. She began her new life as a teacher in a Catholic School.

While traveling back to see family in Europe, she met the love of her life, Richard H. Kalish, on the USS United States.

Richard and Brigitte married in 1959, and Brigitte was a loving mother to Richard N. Kalish, Andrew E. Kalish, and Paul H. Kalish.

Brigitte was very involved in volunteering at Nathaniel Witherell in Greenwich, and often volunteered at North Mianus School in any capacity necessary. Many times she came into her daughter in law’s classroom to share her Cultural traditions, and act as an interpreter from German to English.

Brigitte enjoyed photography, crosswords, gardening, square dancing, attending theater productions, and traveling to over 30 countries with her husband Richard, and their children.

Brigitte shined and flourished as a Grandmother. She enjoyed caring for her grandchildren Derek, Julia, Ethan, and Gavin.

Affectionately known as “Omi”, she instilled lifelong traditions that made every holiday special.

Brigitte was the epitome of living life to its fullest, showing grace under pressure, and finding the brightside on what for others may have been dark days. She will be remembered and admired for her strength, courage, and compassion.

Brigitte is survived by her sons Andrew Kalish, wife Suzanne Kalish, Paul Kalish, wife Regan Kalish, Richard N. Kalish. She is also survived by her grandchildren Derek, Julia, Ethan, and Gavin.

Brigitte is predeceased by her husband, Richard H. Kalish, and siblings, Hans Schwarz, Gunther Schwarz, Hilda Binder, and Annie Schwarz.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, March 27 from 4:00pm-7:00pm, at Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home, Arch Street, Greenwich, Ct.

A Celebration of life service will be on Wednesday, March 28, at 12:30pm, at Christ Church, 254 E. Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, Ct.

Following the service all are welcome to attend a 2pm lunch reception at the Laurel Athletic Club, 13 North Avenue, Norwalk, Ct.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Scleraderma Foundation, 300 Rosewood Drive, Suite 105, Danvers, MA 01923-1389