Jon C. "Chris" Closterman

Jon C. "Chris" Closterman, beloved father, friend and brother, passed away at his home in Hope Valley, RI on Saturday, September 6, 2025. He was 68.
Born in Waltham, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Donald and Patricia Closterman.
Chris worked as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service for many years, forging treasured friendships with many in the community. Following his retirement from the postal service, Chris worked as a courier for the Washington Trust Company. Chris served as a ruling elder at Babcock Presbyterian Church, where he devoted much of his time to caring for the grounds and serving as financial secretary.
Chris' passions included playing the guitar, cooking, and gardening. Chris was a dedicated Pats fan who never missed a chance to watch the games with his buddy Jeff. Those closest to Chris describe him as kind, funny, thoughtful, compassionate, a steadfast friend, and truly a gentle soul. Justine and Sarah, who he often referred to as his greatest contribution to this world, were his pride and joy and he was endlessly proud of them.
Whenever he was invited to speak at a funeral, wedding, or Sunday service, Chris gladly did so-and he was truly gifted at it. A natural public speaker-confident, warm, and effortlessly engaging-he had a way of making everyone feel welcomed, whether addressing a full congregation or sharing a quiet conversation one-on-one. Chris could talk to anyone, lend a hand without hesitation, and was always there when it truly counted.
He will be dearly missed by his two daughters, Sarah Closterman and Justine Gamache, her husband Dylan, dachshund Ruby, brother Jay Closterman, his wife Teri, their two children, Ashley and William, and his childhood best friend Jeff Archambault.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service at 12 noon on Saturday, September 20th at Babcock Presbyterian Church, 25 Maxson St., Ashaway. There will be a Celebration of Life immediately following. Burial is private. Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly is in charge of the arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com