News Summary
The community of Palm Beach Gardens gathers to celebrate the life of Charles ‘Chick’ Geilich, a passionate adventurer and dedicated family man who touched many lives. An entrepreneur at heart, Chick’s legacy includes significant contributions to business and community projects. His love for family and nature was profound, and he is remembered as a kind spirit who embraced every opportunity.
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida: A Life Well-Lived Remembered
On July 31, 2025, the vibrant community of Palm Beach Gardens came together to bid farewell to a true adventurer and family man, Charles “Chick” Geilich, who passed away peacefully at the age of 96. Surrounded by his loving family, Chick took his final breaths in the serene setting of his home in sunny Florida.
A Journey Through Time
Born on July 19, 1929, in the bustling town of Brockton, Massachusetts, Chick was raised in a family that valued hard work and perseverance. From an early age, it was evident that he had a thirst for knowledge and a passion for life. After completing his studies at Vermont Academy, he moved on to Dartmouth College, where he earned a degree in chemical engineering. Not one to stop there, he further enhanced his skills with business management courses at the prestigious Harvard University.
A Service to Remember
Chick’s dedication to his country was evident as he served in the Coast Guard during the Korean War. His experiences during this time shaped him into the strong, determined individual that many came to admire. After his service, he joined the family business, Geilich Tanning Company, where he worked his way up to the position of executive vice president.
Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit
But Chick was not one to be confined by a single role. With an adventurous spirit and a keen eye for opportunity, he transitioned into the world of entrepreneurship, founding Recycling Industries. His ability to seize opportunities and innovate helped him build a legacy that went beyond just business.
A Life Full of Adventure
Chick was known far and wide for his adventurous lifestyle. An accomplished skier, he was a proud member of the National Ski Patrol and even helped establish a ski school at Mittersill in Franconia Notch, New Hampshire. His love for the ocean was equally strong; Chick earned his sea captain license and spent two years sailing through the breathtaking Bahamas and the Caribbean aboard his beloved 50-foot sailboat, Summer Snow. During this time, he invited friends and family to join him on unforgettable sailing adventures.
Giving Back to the Community
Chick’s ventures were not just for personal gain. He was instrumental in transforming the granite quarries in Quincy, Massachusetts, into the stunning 27-hole golf course known as Granite Links at Quarry Hills. He also played a key role in the construction of the Jewish Community Center in Sharon, Massachusetts, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community.
A Family Man
While Chick achieved many milestones throughout his life, nothing brought him more joy than his family. His devotion to his loved ones was unwavering, and his two children, Wendy Capland and husband Chris Michaud, and Michael Geilich and wife Cindy Mahler, as well as Lisa and Jeff Gjoen, were always at the top of his priority list. This dedication continued right up until his passing. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Andrew Capland, Abigail Galusha, Benjamin Geilich, Jared Geilich, and Eric Gjoen, along with two great-grandchildren, Cameron Hall Capland and Mia Josephine Capland.
Final Farewell
Chick’s funeral service is scheduled for August 5, 2025, at Temple Judea in Palm Beach Gardens at 11:00 a.m. To allow friends and family near and far to join in honoring his memory, the service will be live-streamed online. Following the service, there will be a Shiva at The Devonshire, Palm Beach Gardens, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, Chick requested that those wanting to express sympathy consider planting a tree in his memory. This beautiful gesture symbolizes not only Chick’s love for nature and the outdoors but also the lasting impact he had on those around him.
As the community reflects on Chick’s remarkable life, it’s clear that he will be dearly missed but fondly remembered as a true adventurer, dedicated entrepreneur, and nurturing family man.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Palm Beach Post Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Palm Beach Gardens
- Legacy Obituary for Nina Geilich
- Google Search: Chick Geilich
- New York Times: Carol Moore Betrothed
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