Scott Karsen, who grew up at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich, earned its highest youth honor, and spent his career teaching Greenwich children to swim, died Aug. 9. He was 55.

Karsen was named the club's "Youth of the Year" in 1990, an honor the BGCG has awarded since 1969 to members who show leadership, academic achievement and service to their community. He graduated from Greenwich High School and attended Westfield State College — then came back home, returning to the club as a swim instructor and closing the circle on where his own story began.

Karsen later founded Scott Karsen Aquatics, turning that same passion into a business of his own. His obituary noted that teaching children to swim was far more than a job for him, according to a Patch report citing his family's tribute — helping young swimmers gain confidence and feel safe in the water brought him real joy, and he cherished the relationships he built with the kids and families he taught over the years.

The Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich said this week it was grateful Karsen's family designated the club to receive memorial contributions in his memory, calling it a fitting tribute to his lifelong connection to the organization. Donations can be made at bgcg.org.

Visitation is Thursday, Aug. 13, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Castiglione Funeral Home, 544 Old Post Road #3, Greenwich. A funeral service follows Friday, Aug. 14, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home, with burial at St. Mary's Cemetery on North Street.