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Carl Dickman, Fairfield Selectman, State Rep

Carl Dickman, a former Fairfield selectman and state representative, died Sunday at the age of 84. Dickman's career in local and state politics spanned more than 34 years.

Dickman was born in Rockport, Mass., on July 6, 1926. After graduating from Rockport High School in 1944, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, later serving in the Korean War. After leaving the Navy, he attended the University of Bridgeport. He settled in Fairfield, where he worked as a cytologist.

Dickman began serving on local and town boards, first as a member of the Plan and Zoning Commission from 1967 to 1971 and again from 1975 to 1977. He was also a member of the Republican State Central Committee from 1970 to 1976; and chairman of the Fourth Congressional Republican Organization from 1974 to 1977. He was first elected to the Board of Selectmen in 1977 and served under First Selectmen John Sullivan and Jackie Durrell until winning Fairfield's 132nd District Assembly seat in 1994. He served in the state House of Representatives until retiring in 2004.

"Carl had an unabashed love for public service and civic duty, and he passed that gift on to scores of young people in Fairfield and beyond," Republican Representative Town Meeting Majority Leader James Millington, said in an email. "When I first got involved in public service following college graduation, Carl was there to welcome me, and has continued to be there for me since and stood by me every step for the way."

Outside of politics, Dickman was a life member of the Knights of Columbus Father Coleman Council and the Monsignor William Blake General Assembly of Fairfield. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 74 in Fairfield. He also loved golf, serving as the H. Smith Richardson Gold Club president and president of the New England Public Golf Association.

Dickman was predeceased by his wife, Grace. He is survived by two daughters, Kathleen and Maureen. Fairfield's Lesko-Polke Funeral home is handling arrangements for his funeral.

Did you know Carl Dickman? Share your memories in the comments below.

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