Derek M. Antonucci

1989 - 2021

Derek Mark Antonucci, 32, left this world on May 4, 2021. Born in Farmington, CT on March 14, 1989, the tragic loss is profound for his parents, Mark Antonucci, of Granby, Connecticut and Elisa Polci and Patrick Gilkes of Portland, Maine; grandparents: Mary Polci of Granby, Barbara and Donald Antonucci of Barkhamsted. His sisters, Kasey Antonucci and Keira Hollister deeply mourn the passing of their adoring big brother. He was predeceased by his grandfather, William Polci; great-grandparents, James and Marjorie Desmond; and stepfather, Daniel Hollister, all of with whom he shared special bonds. Cherished by his aunts and uncles, Derek leaves an unfillable void in in the lives of Keith Polci, Maura and Ted Provencher, and Kim Antonucci. His endearing humor and charm made him treasured by all, especially his first cousins: Priscilla and Savannah Polci, Isabelle, Emelia and Caroline Provencher, and Ryan, Justin and Alex Walton. Derek was loved by his large extended family. Raised in Granby, CT, Derek attended local schools and participated in Little League, Rovers Soccer and Motocross. He graduated from Granby Memorial High School and attended Vermont Technical College. He loved fishing, snowboarding and, in recent years, became passionate about ocean conservation and diving, spending several months in Florida earning certification and working with his cousin Ryan on a dive boat. In addition to oceanic creatures, he had a unique ability to connect with animals, no matter the species. We have many stories of Derek rescuing animals in need, from frogs to squirrels and beyond. He especially loved all of the family dogs. His dog Zoe will miss their car rides together. No one is immune to the epidemic of opioid addiction and the biological impact of this disease that encumbers our society. Derek worked at recovery for nearly ten years, throughout which we kept hope for his healing. Our devastated family encourages you to learn more at www.apromisetojordan.org. Derek's family is grateful for the encouragement he received from many who cared deeply about his well-being. In particular, we would like to acknowledge his lifelong friends Michael Bednaz and Chuck Constable, and supporters from his recovery network, especially Steph and Danny. Donations can be made in his honor to A Promise to Jordan (www.apromisetojordan.org) and the Farrell Treatment Center (www.farrell-tc.com). For visiting hours and condolences, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com.