Richard Gossett

Photo caption: Jim Gossett, Dick Gossett and Gables Fire Chief Walt Reed at the museum's Fewell Gallery topping off ceremony.

Coral Gables Retired Deputy Chief Richard Gossett passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 20 after a courageous battle with cancer. Chief Gossett's family has established a memorial fund in his name to benefit the Coral Gables Museum, which will be housed in the renovated Coral Gables Historic Police and Fire Station at 285 Aragon Avenue.

Chief Gossett worked out of "Old Station 1" from 1957 to 1970 and enthusiastically lent his experience, memories and expertise to the museum project. In addition he assisted students from Shenandoah Middle School in researching Coral Gables history for a book they produced entitled Building a Dream.

Throughout the museum planning phase, he was always available for consultation on the use and original design of the building. In September 2009 as part of the building's "topping off ceremony," Chief Gossett and his son, Coral Gables Firefighter Jim Gossett, hoisted a grapefruit tree to the top of the museum's new Fewell Gallery from the Fire Department's ladder truck.

Prior to his passing, Mr. Gossett shared his enthusiasm for the museum and his wish to assist in ensuring in its success. Gossett Museum Memorial donations should be mailed to Coral Gables Firefighters Benevolent Association (you may write CGFBA) P. O. Box 340712 Coral Gables, FL 33134 with notation that the donation is for the museum.