Richard M. Zakrzewski, 77, of East Hartford, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2019 with his family by his side. He was the beloved husband of Maria Zakrzewski for 40 years. Richard was born on July 17, 1941 in Poland to the late Martin and Mary Zakrzewski. He proudly served in the United States Army.
Richard was a man who believed in the love and support of family. Spending time and doing anything he was able to for them was his first priority. He was a tough, no nonsense kind of guy. He was extremely handy, loved spending time outdoors and made a point of staying active, whether it was snow blowing, working in the yard, or going for walks. He loved growing vegetables in his garden and could never pass up munching on a fresh scallion or tomato. His lifelong passion was fresh water trout fishing and snuck off to his favorite spots whenever he could. He will be remembered for his “don’t quit” attitude, physical toughness, and incredible sense of humor.
He will be dearly missed by his family; wife Maria, daughters Christine Zakrzewski and Katherine Kellogg, son-in-law James Kellogg, sister Mary Zakrzewski, and kitty, Penny.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to: West Haven VA Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Ave., West Haven, CT 06516 (checks payable to West Haven VA Healthcare System) or Take A Vet Fishing program, TAVF c/o First Congregational Church of Branford, 1009 Main Street, Branford, CT 06405 (checks payable to FCCB/TAVF).
All are welcome to attend a period of visitation on Thursday, January 31st, 2019 from 5pm-7pm at Newkirk & Whitney Funeral Home, 318 Burnside Ave., East Hartford, CT 06108. Services will begin on Friday, February 1st, at 9am at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10am at St. Cyril and St. Methodius Church, 55 Charter Oak Ave., Hartford. Burial with Military Honors will conclude services in Mt. St. Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.newkirkandwhitney.com
