Electrical engineer, Mason, bowler
Published in the October 14, 2016 edition
MELROSE — Carl H. Gylfphe Jr., 80, a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 5.
Carl was born in Melrose on July 31, 1936, one of two sons of the late Carl H. Sr. and Signe (Johnson) Gylfphe. Raised in Melrose, Carl graduated from Melrose High School, and received his bachelor’s degree from Wentworth Institute of Technology.
He served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1959 until an honorable discharge in 1962. He was married in 1962 in Medford and settled in Melrose to raise a family of two children.
Carl worked as an electrical engineer for 40 years at the MIT-Lincoln Laboratory at Hanscom Air Force Base. He enjoyed his position in research and development, traveling the country while working in collaboration with the Department of Defense.
Outside of his work, Carl was an avid ham radio operator. With the call sign W1FJL, he volunteered his time partnering with local police and medical teams for the efficient relay of resources and information.
He was a longtime active member of Wyoming Lodge AF&AM in Melrose where he served as past master and a longtime member of the Aleppo Temple Shrine. He was also a member of the First United Methodist Church where he helped coordinate the restoration of the pipe organ.
In his free time, Carl was a passionate bowler and enjoyed golfing. He was a particularly avid 10-pin bowler and donated his time to coach junior bowling. He also loved traveling to the Caribbean to explore the islands or experience cruising with wife, Jean.
Carl was a smart, quick-witted man who enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and more recently enjoyed daily lunches with Jean. He will be lovingly remembered.
Carl was the beloved husband of Jean C. (MacDonald) Gylfphe with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. He was the devoted father of Laura L. Zappala and her husband Nunzio of Gloucester and Scott A. Gylfphe of Reading. He was the cherished grandfather of Melanie J. Gylfphe and Tyler A. Gylfphe. He was the dear brother of the late Peter A. Gylfphe. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Carl’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Sunday, Oct. 9 from 2-5 p.m., followed by his funeral service celebrated at 5 p.m.
For online tribute or to share a memory, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
