John H. Geils, 89, of Southbury passed away Saturday May 14, 2016 at home surrounded by family; He is survived by his wife, Virginia M. Geils. John was born in Staten Island N.Y. to Alda and Louis C. Geils. He was a graduate of Wittenburg University. John was served his country and was Honorably discharged from the United States Air Force 1946.
After college he worked in industrial sales for Sun Oil Company. In 1966 he borrowed money from friends and family to purchase Columbia Manicure and Flowery Beauty Products located in Bronx NY. The company was famous for having invented the emery board. With the help of his sons, John moved the company to Greenwich CT and built the business by acquiring several small brands of over-the-counter pharmaceutical products and personal care products.
Throughout his life he volunteered his time as a boy-scout leader, church elder and a member of the United Hospital expansion fundraising committee.
He was married to Virginia M Geils for 67 years, and is survived by his wife and 3 sons; John L. Geils, Stamford CT, William C. Geils, Bridgeport CT, Geoffrey S Geils, New Fairfield CT, and their families.
He enjoyed swimming, sailing as a member of the American Yacht Club in Rye NY, golfing, fishing, listening to jazz, traveling and mentoring other entrepreneurs in small business.
Although hearing impaired, he had a special gift of being able to pick up any instrument and quickly figure out how to play it.
Most of all, he was truly devoted to his wife, children and four grandchildren, and enjoyed providing a beautiful gathering spot at their vacation home at Silver Bay on Lake George NY.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in honor of John H. Geils, to the South Britian Congregational Church, or The Silver Bay Association, Silver Bay, NY 12874

Cemetery: Cemetery Not Applicable

Location: Munson-Lovetere Southbury

Funeral: South Britain Congregational Church

Services: A memorial service will be held Saturday 1: 00 pm May 28th 2016 at the South Britian Congregational Church 693 S Britain Rd, Southbury, CT 06488