Fordham Mourns the Loss of CBA Alumnus

John William Gilder, a 2008 graduate of Fordham’s College of Business Administration (CBA), died on Aug. 18 in his sleep due to an undiagnosed heart problem. He was 23.

Gilder was born in New York City and raised in Greenwich, Conn. He attended North Mianus School, Eastern Middle School and graduated from Greenwich High School in 2004. While in high school, he attained the rank of Eagle Scout and won first place in the Junior League’s Public Service Film Contest for his film on the dangers of smoking.

At Fordham, Gilder earned a bachelor of science in business administration. Most recently, he was working for Warner Brothers Pictures.

He lived on City Island with his grandfather.

“John was a humble yet confident young man who offered his friendship to many,” according to an obituary written by his family.

Gilder is survived by his parents, Mark and Karen Gilder, sisters Kerry and Kathleen Gilder, and his grandparents—William T. McGee and John and Margaret Gilder. He is also survived by many aunts and uncles. Gilder will be missed by longtime girlfriend Elizabeth Murray, a 2009 graduate of Fairfield University.

A wake will be held at from 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21 at:

Schuyler Hill Funeral Home
3535 East Tremont Ave., Bronx, N.Y.

Funeral services are set for 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22 at:

St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Church
590 City Island Ave., City Island, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the John Gilder Memorial Scholarship Trust, c/o 32 Fado Lane, Cos Cob, CT 06807.

—Gina Vergel