The owner and CEO of Danbury Aerospace, a Texas-based firm with several subsidiaries serving general aviation owners and operators, died May 31 at his home after a long battle with cancer. Gary H. Garvens was 77.
A past president and director of the Aeronautical Repair Station Association, Garvens joined Danbury Aerospace, the family business, after earning an MBA from Stanford University in 1960. He had previously served as an officer in the U.S. Navy, and later founded Raffles Insurance Co.
“With his entrepreneurial spirit, he brought new and innovative technologies to the piston engine aircraft industry,” Danbury AeroSpace announced. “His optimism and strength were evident in his personality and his dedication to the company his father started in 1943. His contributions, dedication and courage will be missed.”
Garvens was also known for many other talents, including wine-making and working with metal and wood. According to an obituary, he had spent five years rebuilding a 26-foot steamboat to be sailed on Lake Travis.
Garvens’ life will be celebrated June 9 at New Braunfels Presbyterian Church in New Braunfels, Texas
