Christopher Dean Colonna

Christopher Colonna was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew and friend whose life was defined by loyalty, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to family. The fourth of ten children, Christopher was born to Anthony Colonna II and Raqueline Colonna, and he carried the values of family and responsibility with him throughout his life.

Above all else, Christopher deeply loved his daughters and his grandchildren, Gianna and Gavin, who were the pride and joy of his life. He cherished spending time with them, especially meeting Karyn and his grandchildren at Starbucks or Tropical Smoothie, moments that brought him genuine happiness. He was endlessly proud of his daughters and grandchildren, and his love for them was constant and unwavering.

Christopher expressed love in quiet, meaningful ways. One treasured memory was rocking his daughter Karyn to sleep as a child, humming a tune he created just for her called “Life Is But a Dream.” It was a tender reflection of the care he carried in his heart.

A lifelong Detroit sports fan, Christopher loved the Lions and Tigers and was the ultimate University of Michigan fan—Go Blue!

Christopher loved his coffee, football, fishing, and music—especially Guns N’ Roses and Metallica. He enjoyed watching Cops, Court TV, and Deadliest Catch, and had a talent for picking out the best movies for family time. He had a special admiration for bald eagles, often marveling at their strength and beauty in nature. He took pride in doing things the right way—always paying his rent on the first no matter where he was, enjoying a good game of FreeCell, and treating himself to new shoes and jeans. He was especially proud of his place, keeping it immaculately tidy and thoughtfully decorated, a space that reflected his sense of independence and personal pride. He also had a great sense of humor and a natural charm that made people laugh and feel at ease in his presence.

His strong work ethic was evident throughout his career. He worked alongside his father and brother Tony at Tony’s Tree Service for about 10 years, and later co-founded Colonna Brothers Tree Company with his brother Tony, where he worked for approximately 15 years.

Christopher also took great pride in caring for the homes and yards of the people he loved. He faithfully maintained his sister Bridget’s yard, taking genuine enjoyment in ensuring it was always meticulous. He also redid his daughter’s landscaping, putting the same care and precision into it that he brought to everything he did. He loved his family immensely and though he valued his independence and could be stubborn at times, he never failed to show up for his family when they needed him.

Christopher will be remembered for his dependability, quiet strength, humor, and unwavering love for his family. His presence will never be forgotten, and he will always be watching over those he loved as their guardian angel.

Christopher(Dad), we Love You More!

Christopher is survived by his daughters Karyn (John) Thomas and Michelle Colonna; his grandchildren Gianna and Gavin Thomas; his siblings Maria (Michael) Brunker, Michael (Brenda) Colonna, Bridget Fisher, Rebecca (Ron) Hendren, Theresa Heslin, and Marcus (Lei) Colonna; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son Kevin Justin Colonna; his parents Anthony Colonna II and Raqueline Colonna; his siblings Raqueline Engbarth, Anthony (Marianne) Colonna III, Dorothy Skidmore and brother-in-law Thomas Joseph Heslin Jr.

A memorial will be held this spring to lovingly honor the life of Christopher and remember him with family.