David Joseph Zaccaro

David J. Zaccaro, 63, adored husband of Audrey (Burdick) Zaccaro, passed away January 9, 2019. Born December 23, 1955 in Stafford Springs, he was the son of Joseph Zaccaro, Sr. of Enfield and the late Beverly (Yost) Zaccaro.  Known by his loved ones and friends as “Dave”, “The Wave” and “Papa” he met the love of his life, Audrey, at Southern Connecticut State College, New Haven while earning his B.S. in Business Administration. Prior to his studies, he proudly served his country as an Air Force Medic stationed in Albuquerque, NM.  He was employed by the Veterans’ Administration in West Haven and Hartford and the Department of the Navy, Groton, CT. He returned to school to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, where he served Eastern CT, caring for individuals with disabilities for the State of CT, Department of Developmental Services and Pediatric Services of America up until his retirement in 2018.   A fiercely-loved man, his bear hugs, goofy dancing, incredible sense of humor, random outbursts and big mustache smile will be missed dearly by his family – to which he was fully devoted. Dave coached his children’s sports teams. He loved his daily pots of coffee, Audrey’s cooking, big breakfast platters, going out for pizza at Rossini’s and beating up on his sons and nephews in Fantasy football. A legendary bargain hunter, his greatest joy was traveling with family – especially when it was a “great freaking deal.” His travels included fun getaways to the Caribbean with the kids, romantic trips to Europe with his wife and more recently, vacations in Florida where he would build sand castles, walk the beach, swim in the ocean with his pride and joy- Maddie.  In addition to his loving wife of 35 years, David (the original Mr. Mom) leaves three children: Christopher David Zaccaro and his fiancée Kirsten Spear of East Hartford, Daniel Zaccaro of Colchester and Chelsea Zaccaro of Colchester. Papa leaves his “favorite” granddaughter Madelynn “Maddie” Zaccaro, daughter of Chelsea.  He is survived by his father Joseph Sr., sister and brother-in-law (x2) Lee-Etta and Matthew Burdick of Enfield, his mother and father-in-law Dolores and David Burdick of Uncasville, numerous extended family members, his dearly loved co-workers, clients and friends.  He was predeceased by his mother, Beverly and his brother, Joseph, Jr.  The family will receive guests from 12 - 3 PM Saturday (Jan. 19th) with a Celebration of Life service offered at 2:30 PM at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester.  Burial will be private.  

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