Christopher Hnat Obituary

Waterford - Christopher M. "Chris" Hnat of Second Avenue, Waterford, was born Sept. 14, 1946, at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Sampson, N.Y., the eldest son of the late Stephen and Barbara Hnat. On Sept. 23, 2021, nine days after celebrating his 75th birthday, he died in the comfort of his home and longtime partner, Patrick Smith.

Chris is survived by two sisters, Katherine Mann (husband, Bob) and Barbara Cordell; and two brothers, Joseph Hnat (wife, Elly) and Peter (wife, Pattie); as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; and brothers, John and Stephen (surviving widow, Bonnie).

Chris graduated from Waterford High School and thereafter enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, proudly serving our country for four years in Guam and Da Nang, Vietnam. He often commented that-as was the case for many veterans-no one, upon return to the U.S., asked him what he had experienced. Rather than focus on the horrors of war, Chris lived his life radiating a "Joy of Life" each and every day. His work career spanned almost 30 years at Pfizer, where many friendships began and flourished.

Chris had a deep love of nature and enjoyed every opportunity to explore the hills, forests, farms, and beaches. These trips (for 40 years) were taken on his motorcycle and, later, in his truck, with Patrick at the wheel so that he could look freely at the scenery he so appreciated and frequently drew and painted. In the years after his retirement Chris created countless works of art that inspired happiness, optimism, and hope and were generously shared with family and friends.

Chris maintained an avid fitness regimen that included cycling and visits to the gym. Despite his imposing stature, he remained a "gentle giant." His big, open heart extended to the little creatures as well. He and his partner loved to garden and spent countless hours relaxing, while listening to the great variety of seasonal birds that had found a welcoming haven in their yard. Fall was his favorite season to enjoy Connecticut and this year his favorite roads and stops will feel a bit empty without him.

Chris was his family's beloved patriarch.

A memorial gathering will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 30, 2021, at the Thomas L. Neilan and Sons Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street, Niantic. There will be a gravesite service at 11 a.m. the following morning, Oct. 1, 2021, at the Jordan Cemetery, 240 Boston Post Road, Waterford.

Condolences may be shared on Mr Hnat's memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com.