Thomas Ziobo July 27th 1950 - July 24th 2026

Thomas "Tommy" Ziobo lived the kind of life that leaves footprints long after a person is gone. He passed away surrounded by the love of those whose lives he touched, leaving behind countless stories, lifelong friendships, and a legacy of generosity, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family and to the outdoors he cherished.

Tommy proudly served in the United States Army Reserves and, as a young man, served as an altar boy in the Catholic Church—two experiences that reflected the values he carried throughout his life: service, humility, and dedication to something greater than himself.

Those same values guided an extraordinary career in conservation and public service. Tommy proudly served for thirty years as a Conservation Officer with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), protecting the state's natural resources and the wildlife he loved so deeply. He later served as a Police Officer with Aquarion Water Company, a role he embraced with the same integrity, professionalism, and dedication. Tommy was immensely proud of both careers, but especially of the men and women he had the privilege of serving alongside. He considered his fellow officers an extended family and held them in the highest regard.

His greatest love was his wife, Karen "Darling Dearsie" Ziobo. Anyone who knew Tommy knew how deeply he adored her. He never missed an opportunity to tell people, "I love my wife." Their marriage was a beautiful example of loyalty, friendship, and enduring love.

Tommy was preceded in death by his beloved son, Joey Ziobo; his parents, Charles and Helen Ziobo; and his cherished cat, Smokey, who undoubtedly found the best seat in Heaven waiting for him. 

He leaves behind his loving daughters, Rachel Ann Bonesteel and her husband William, and

Emily Ziobo Lauricia and her husband Scott. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to

Michael and Juliet Bonesteel. He is also survived by his brothers, James Ziobo, John Ziobo, Paul Ziobo and his wife Marcie, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who became family.

If there was one place Tommy felt most at home, it was outdoors. An avid hunter and fisherman, he lived by three simple words that became his signature: "Fin, Feathers, Fur." Those words weren't just a saying—they were a way of life.

He believed the outdoors was something to be cared for, not simply enjoyed. Whether he was cleaning the marsh, picking up litter along the roadside, or quietly leaving a place better than he found it, Tommy showed everyone around him what it meant to be a steward of God's creation.

One of his greatest joys was teaching young people to appreciate nature. Jacob and Justin Oathout, Madelyn and Grayson Culliton, Henry Burgess, Michael Merly and Alex Daniels held a special place in his heart, and he delighted in sharing his knowledge of hunting, fishing, conservation, and respect for the outdoors with them. Many fishermen proudly carried tackle boxes that Tommy had thoughtfully restocked, complete with his famous Ziploc bags filled with carefully chosen lures. It was just one of the countless ways he showed his love.

When Tommy wasn't catching fish or tracking game, he was usually delivering his latest bounty to friends and neighbors. He gave freely and expected nothing in return, finding genuine happiness in taking care of others.

Of course, no fishing trip with Tommy would be complete without plenty of snacks. Those lucky enough to fish beside him all tell the same story: while everyone else was working hard, Tommy would be enjoying a sandwich or a favorite treat, happily directing the action from his seat. It earned him the affectionate nickname, "The General"—a title he wore proudly and with a smile.

Tommy had an infectious laugh, endless energy, and a smile that made everyone feel welcome. He lifted people up wherever he went, never hesitating to lend a helping hand or brighten someone's day.

By Tommy's own wishes, there will be no calling hours. He wanted to be remembered exactly as he lived—full of life, surrounded by family and friends, swapping hunting and fishing stories, laughing often, and appreciating every blessing.

His family invites everyone who knew him to honor his memory by caring for the outdoors, sharing what they have with others, teaching a child to fish, and never leaving a place worse than they found it.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered their love and support during this difficult time. Whether you shared a meal, spoke a kind word, offered a comforting embrace, or told one of Tommy's unforgettable stories, your kindness has brought comfort beyond measure. The outpouring of love from family, friends, neighbors, fellow officers, and the many lives Tommy touched is a testament to the remarkable man he was and the lasting impact he made on this world.

A life measured by love, generosity, laughter, and service is never truly over. Tommy's spirit will forever live in every sunrise over the water, every quiet morning in the woods, every child casting a line for the first time, every marsh left cleaner than it was found, every Ziploc bag filled with fishing lures, and every heart fortunate enough to have known him.

Until we meet again, Tommy... may your lines stay tight, your woods stay wild, and may God hold you gently in His loving arms. 

All services will be held privately.

 For travel directions or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.LeskoFuneralHome.com