Zduniak, Christopher "Zoonie"

Christopher “Zoonie” Zduniak, 51, of Southington, passed away Sunday, September 5, 2021, from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.

A graduate of New Britain High School, where he excelled in cross country and track, running his way to many championships. His love for long distance running brought him joy throughout his life leading him to coach local youth, sharing with young aspiring runners the experiences he enjoyed for so many years. Following High School, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served in Operation Desert Storm, was deployed to Southwest Asia, earned numerous decorations, medals and citations, and was a member of the Marine Corps Reserve. With a keen athleticism, Christopher participated in the Marine Corps Boxing Program, and his passion for boxing continued taking him to boxing gyms in Hartford to enhance both his skills, and coach youth boxing programs.

Christopher had a true guiding principle to serve and to help, especially those who needed a helping hand. He valued the small and the big, the great and the worn. For the only thing that surpassed his smile, was his heart, which he gave freely, to everyone he met. He was always kind and treated everyone as if they mattered because to him, they did. He judged

no one, accepted everyone, and when you became a friend, you were a friend for life. No matter where he went, he knew someone. So the briefest of stops would turn into an extended reunion with someone he knew. His vast number of friends always made him the life of the party when he walked into a room and Chris would go out of his way to make sure everyone was enjoying themselves as much as he was.

Christopher's motto for life was “treat every day as if it was your last”, and boy did he. Chris had a passion for fishing which started at an early age during decades of summers spent in Old Lyme. Whether he caught anything or not, he had a smile on his face, just being out on his boat, salt wind in his face, usually with friends by his side. An ardent Red Sox and Steelers fan, he also loved music, played the trumpet, and was a wonderful dancer. Most recently, Chris retreated to Miami, FL enjoying time with those he loved most.

A loyal son, protective brother, and dedicated to his work in commercial construction, his hard work could always be counted on to manage vast and particular projects, to finish a job and finish it right.

Christopher's biggest loyalty was to his family. He leaves behind an extended heartbroken family. His three children will always be his crowning achievement. Chris was a devoted father, always willing to support and guide the best way he could, with understanding and love.

At the request of the family, a private memorial service, with military honors, was held.

Memorial Donations may be made in his name to Disabled American Veterans, located in VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 555 Willard Ave, Newington CT 06111. Carlson Funeral Home, New Britain, is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share a memory or note of sympathy at www. carlsonfuneralhome.com or send a written condolences/cards for the family to the funeral home.