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BORN

1958

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Bailey Funeral Home - Plainville

48 Broad Street

Plainville, Connecticut

Theodore Christopher Obituary



"First tap is telling you I'm here. Second tap is telling you to pick a lane. Third tap, I'm picking the lane for you." Ted "TC" "The King" Christopher #13 NASCAR driver, business owner and beloved husband, son, brother, uncle and friend, Theodore "Ted" "TC" Christopher, died following a tragic airplane crash in Guilford Saturday. The celebrated 59-year-old driver, a Plainville native who recently moved to Southington, left behind both a legend and a legacy. His life was full of energy, swagger, intelligence, generosity and kindness that together contributed to the essence of a man whose greatness went far beyond the race track. In 2001 Christopher won the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series national title and in 2008 the NASCAR Whelan Modified Tour Crown. With 13 combined championships, he was the winningest driver at both Stafford Motor Speedway and Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park. Christopher, whose "Three Tap" rule reflected his aggressive, signature racing style, was named one of the top 25 drivers in NASCAR's weekly series in 2006, when the series celebrated its 25th anniversary. In 2008, Stafford named a section of its grandstand in his honor. Despite his age, Christopher had not lost any of his edge. So far this season he had racked up six wins at Stafford with his most recent just two weeks ago. A fan favorite whose ability was respected by his racing peers, Christopher won hundreds of awards and accolades throughout his racing career. And while most knew him because of his racing celebrity, his biggest successes in life went far beyond the tracks he raced on. A well-regarded and hard-working businessman who owned M & T Enterprises in Plainville, Christopher's roots in his community ran deep. A 1976 graduate of Plainville High School, he was a sports enthusiast who was captain of his high school wrestling team. In 2013 he was inducted into the Plainville Sports Hall of Fame. He rooted for any football team that was winning, especially if the team was beating his wife's Dallas Cowboys, but could care less about the Red Sox or the Yankees. He was an avid reader, loved rock and roll music, was a classic car collector and a guy who couldn't imagine life without his German shepherds, including puppy Maverick. His friendships with his gang of longtime friends were precious, respected and far reaching. An accomplished cook, he never missed the Wednesday night Outback dinners "with the boys" followed by Pralines ice cream on his way home. Morning oatmeal from scratch with a side of "Let's Make A Deal" was a must. He was generous to his community, sponsoring many children's recreational activities and quietly contributing to non-profit efforts because he wanted to help. As a son and sibling, he was devoted. As an uncle, he loved knowing that the party never really began for delighted nieces and nephews until a boisterous, grinning and mischief-making "Uncle Teddy" arrived. Nothing in his life however, was more important than his wife, Quinn Wazorko Christopher, and the treasured life and home they had built together. It reflected an unshakeable bond of love and trust and teamwork that he valued much more than his rooms full of trophies. Christopher was a true man of merit, one who lived every day of his life to the fullest and whose life ended too soon. He will be missed more than words can explain. Besides his wife he leaves his mother Lucy (Graziano) Christopher; his twin brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Jen Christopher of Wolcott; his sister and brother-in-law Joe and Judy Christopher Mannix of Longmeadow; his mother-in-law MaryEllen Fillo Wazorko of Southington and Delray Beach, Fl ; his brothers-and sisters-in-law, Christopher and Raegan Wazorko and Justin and Tabitha Manafort, all of Plainville; his nephews and nieces, Michael and Nicole Christopher, George and Jacob Mannix, Olivia, Lillian and Amelia Wazorko , and Samantha, Justin, and Tommi Manafort. He also leaves many aunts, uncles, cousins and treasured friends who shared his love of life both on and off the racetrack and dearly treasured him. He was pre-deceased by his beloved father, William Christopher. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 10 a.m. at St. Matthew Church, 120 Church St., Forestville. Friends are asked to meet directly at church. Calling hours will be held Monday from 3 to 8 p.m. at Bailey's Funeral Home, 48 Broad St Plainville .There will also be a race program memorial at Stafford Speedway in Stafford Springs on Oct. 1 where his #13 car number will be retired. It is said "The choices we make about the lives we live determine the kinds of legacies we leave." His life was one of love, sass, compassion, honesty and adventure. His legacy is all that and much more. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Ted Christopher Memorial Fund, care of Farmington Bank, 117 East Street Plainville Ct 06062 Attn. Bree Pirog. To leave a condolence go to www.bailey-funeralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Hartford Courant on Sep. 21, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Theodore Christopher

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Colleen Lavoie

September 26, 2017

Deep Condolences from a Stafford Motor race fan .
So sorry for your loss . May his memories carry you all in the days ahead .

Douglas Cobb

September 26, 2017

To Ted’s wife, family and friends –

Heartfelt condolences on Ted’s tragic and FAR-too premature passing.

Like countless others, I’m still stunned - and will remain heartbroken for a long, long time.

Most of we CT (and beyond) race fans only knew Ted for his hall of fame-quality racing skills, prowess and successes over the years.

So - thank you to all who’ve shared heartwarming and humorous stories about Ted, as they’ve provided many of us with an even better side of Ted than we may have imagined.

I moved to CT in early 70’s – after spending many childhood summer weekends at PA + upstate NY dirt tracks – watching Modifieds, Midgets, Sprints and World of Outlaws Super-Sprints (+ Supermodifieds on asphalt at Oswego, while on vacation).

Having also spent a good portion of my early childhood watching TQ Midgets at Pinebrook (NJ) Racetrack in the summer + Convention Hall – on the Atlantic City Boardwalk - in the winters, wish that I’d the opportunity to also watch Ted race TQ Midgets, too.

Much more of a dirt-track enthusiast, initially dreaded the thought of watching anything (other than Supermodifieds – or TQ’s) on asphalt. Slowly grew to enjoy the Modifieds – initially rooting for my man: ‘Steady’ Eddie Flemke – during the era of DeSarro, the Bodine and Bouchard brothers, Richie Evans, etc.

Also rooted for Ray Miller, as my Dad and he were work-related acquaintances (+ Ray invited us to visit the Bouchard brothers’ shop – when Ray drove for them). But as our Modified heroes began to retire and/or head south (literally and figuratively!), there seemed to be a void for a while.

Then came Ted Christopher.

Though unable to add to your wonderful and personal Ted tales, as a lifelong fan of many forms of auto racing, I can only share with you just how grateful that I am for having had the opportunity to watch, admire - and root for – Ted compete in SK’s, Modifieds, Super-Modifieds and Midgets throughout the past 30+ years – at Thompson, Stafford and Waterford racetracks.

Utterly amazing, nail-biting, edge of your seat + standing ovation-quality thrills. SO successful that some tried to root against Ted – me included, at times. But Ted was SO great – and SO much fun to watch, that it was all-but impossible to NOT admire his efforts.

We all witnessed Ted hop in to just about anything – and win. And – more often than not, he not only won – but he put on a show – via a racing ‘clinic’ – and won in thrilling fashion.

How many times – including recently – was Ted sent to the rear of the pack – only to methodically (i.e. 3* taps - per competitor) make his way back to the front – and, ultimately, to victory lane? Can’t count that high…

*Not so sure that Ted always ‘awarded’ taps # 2 and 3 – to ANY competitor!

p.s. Also not so sure that – throughout the years - track operators didn’t fabricate phantom ‘bad Ted’ incidents – simply to provide the fans the thrill of watching Ted artfully (and not so much!) pick his way back through the field – to victory lane.

Dishing it out was one thing (or 3 things), for Ted – but taking it (or NOT!), was another. Ted wasn’t exactly shy – or diplomatic – any time competitors would employ 3 (or less) tap(s) ‘payback’ to Ted – as yet another recent competitor discovered in victory lane. But that’s what made Ted… Ted – and so great.

But perhaps the most incredible aspect of Ted’s illustrious career is the fact that – at the ripe young age of 59, he was STILL on top of his game – and regularly winning races. Truly amazing.

Throughout sports in general, the ultimate compliment is to be called a ‘gamer’. In auto racing, the ultimate compliments are to be called a ‘racer’s racer’ and/or ‘old school’. Ted was all 3 - to his competitors and to his fans.

And so much more to his wife, family and friends…

I’m hopeful that sooner than later, you – and we – will be able to begin the healing process by focusing more on the privileges that we had – re: your opportunity to know and love Ted, personally – as well as for we incredibly lucky race fans to enjoy and appreciate Ted’s absolutely incredible skills on the track, for as long as we – individually and collectively - were fortunate enough to do so.

As aptly stated in your tribute: "The choices we make about the lives we live determine the kinds of legacies we leave."

Thank you, Ted – for the choices that you made, the wonderful memories that you gifted to us - and for the eternal legacy that you left for us to cherish.

May you rest in peace, securely in heaven’s racing hall of fame, throughout the sands of time….

Sincerely,

Doug Cobb

Lisa

September 26, 2017

My sincere condolences to the Christopher Family.
God Speed TC ❤❤

Jeffrey Thibeault

September 26, 2017

Thanks TC for all those years of entertainment. YOU WERE THE BEST!!!

Sandra Hill

September 26, 2017

My heartfelt condolences to his wife and family. Still in disbelief. I thought so much of him and so did Roger. When he drove your car you just knew it was going to the front. Thanks for the memories

Kurt Krieger

September 25, 2017

God speed tc #13

Mark Lucia

September 25, 2017

My condolences to the family
Thanks for the memories Ted you'll definitely be missed

Kyle Wright

September 25, 2017

RIP TED. Thanks for showing me that hard work and dedication.. passion and love mixed into a person can make you unstoppable at your craft. I will always miss you . You were such a great guy and when I jam guitar I will think of you and give it my all. I placed a #13 on my Les Paul in your honor. It will remain there FOREVER.. #13FOREVER ..Kyle R Wright

Robert Bain

September 25, 2017

Ted was the reason I went to the track. He always would take the time to talk to you whether he knew you or not. If he was in the race you knew that it was going to be a good one. He will be missed dearly. Not just a racer but an all around great guy. My condolences to the Christopher family.

Dave Dykes

September 25, 2017

Hearing of this made me terribly sad. If you wrote for a weekly trade or worked in racing PR as I did, you indeed wrote a lot about Ted Christopher. Prayers sent....

Yolanda

September 25, 2017

Quinn and the entire Christopher family,

I would like to express my deepest condolences prayers and thoughts.

Cheryl Membrino

September 25, 2017

Thoughts & Prayers to The Christopher Family. Teddy was idolized & respected by our whole family for the incredible driver & person he was! The sport will never be the same!

The Membrino Family

Andre

September 23, 2017

I am so sorry for your loss. May Almighty God who "binds up the brokenhearted" and "comforts all who mourn" sustain your family during this challenging time. (Isaiah 61:1,2) With heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.

Kevin & Sherri Lohmann & privitera

September 23, 2017

My condolences

Mark Seiler

September 22, 2017

I had the thrill and honor of watching Ted race in a supermodified at my home track, Berlin Raceway, here in Michigan. He was in a strange car for the first time. 'Never been to the track before. They had trouble before getting a chance to qualify, and had to start the feature on the tail. He ended up passing everybody, and WON! What an amazing thing to see! And he was just as nice as could be to all of us after the race. I am SO saddened to learn of his passing. My thoughts and prayers to all of you...

Laura LeBlanc

September 22, 2017

Quinn,
I am so sorry to hear of your husband's passing. Sending thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

September 22, 2017

Lucy and the entire Christopher Family

My Deepest Sympathy and prayers to you in your
great loss.
Your fondest memories will sustain you as Ted sounds like the fun loving person like his dad.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Muriel Iorli
Naples, FL

September 22, 2017

Some of the most exciting NASCAR Divisional racing I've ever seen, was watching Ted race his Modified at New Hampshire International Motor Speedway. If ever there was a racer & a track made for each other, they were it. He owned NHMS during the 4 WMT races there in 2004 & 2005, winning all of them, and won again in the fall of 2008. He loved that place.

I remember seeing so many of the Cup Series drivers on top of their haulers, watching those events, & just wishing they could be out there, racing their guts out, in what arguably has to be the most intimidating & exciting car to drive in all of NASCAR. It's basically just a monster motor on 4 fat slicks. It's fast & it's dangerous & it personifies what local racing is about all over the country.

The same can be said of Ted Christopher. He was a racers' racer. All determination, and no surrender, as evidenced by the numerous messages of sadness from some of the biggest names in the sport, and all corners of the racing community.

He was a great driver & a great person. If you were in the stands or in the pits or in the Press box, you always knew the electricity could spark at any second with him in the race, and THAT'S what brought us in. Now, sadly, we've all lost just a little bit of that excitement.

Gone way too soon.


Scott Cowden
National Motorsports Press Association

Red Bemont

September 21, 2017

Ted you will be missed by many family, friends and fans.

John Corey

September 21, 2017

Condolences to the entire Christopher family - peace , prayers & remembrance

Howie "Z" Fuller

September 21, 2017

If there's one thing I cherish the most about being blessed with the opportunity to have Ted as a friend was the way he insisted on perfection, and there was no substitute than your very best. He helped me along with countless others around him realize their true potential.

John Quincy Adams once said, "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." Ted was all of this and more.

Thanks for the opportunities you've provided for my family and I. You live on in our hearts forever.

Howie, Sherry, Dan, and Jeff

Michael Deary Bros.Stand

September 21, 2017

I never knew Ted as a racecar driver. I only knew him as it individual who loved life ,ice cream and bringing his lovely wife home apple fritters. He will be missed by all

Jim

September 21, 2017

As one of many many fans, I would like to offer my condolences to the entire Christopher family, and everyone that was a part of his life. May you be comforted in the knowledge that he was loved by so many. I was always excited to root for the Thrill from Plainville. He is already sorely missed.

Jon Vitale

September 21, 2017

So sorry for your loss .He will be deeply missed

David & Diane Kukta. D & D Trucking & Exc. LLC

September 21, 2017

Ted was a great man, friend & racer. He will be remembered by everyone both on & off the track! Our sincere thoughts & prayers go out to his family & friends! Thought the years he never changed his style of living, celebrating & racing! May he Rest In Peace

Joe Wueke

September 21, 2017

My deepest condolences go out to Quinn and the rest of the Christopher family.
It was with deep sadness and disbelief that I learned of Ted's passing.
I knew of him through racing, but more through his love for his beloved German Shepherds Ryder and Tyson whom I had the pleasure of working with in my time at PetSmart Grooming.
Ted always was a kind, patient, friendly individual.

September 21, 2017

May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. (Psalms 116:15)

Bailey Funeral Home, Inc.

September 21, 2017

Our heartfelt sympathies in this, your time of grief.

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Bailey Funeral Home - Plainville

48 Broad Street P.O. Box 158, Plainville, CT 06062

Sep

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Funeral services provided by:

Bailey Funeral Home - Plainville

48 Broad Street P.O. Box 158, Plainville, CT 06062

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