Zackory Stephen "Zack" Salomonson

LEDYARD - Zackory Stephen Salomonson, 16, of Ledyard died unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 9, 2017.

Zack was tragically taken from us way before his time. Zack came to live with his grandparents when he was seven years old, and soon a tight nuclear family developed. Zack grew into a beautiful, talented young man. His entire extended family was looking forward to seeing him become a handsome and great man.

Zack was a gifted mechanic and athlete. Zack loved nothing more than working on and rebuilding his cars, trucks, and motorcycles. He ran track at Ledyard High School, earning his varsity letter and qualifying for the state finals in his freshman year and again in his sophomore year.

He was happy, bright, fearless, and very engaging and lived life on his terms. He brightened the day of all those with whom he came in contact. We will always have a piece of our hearts gone. He will forever be missed and always remembered.

Zack is survived by his grandparents, Kathleen MacDonald and Thomas Shipman; his aunt, Hillary MacDonald; uncle, Eduardo Hernandez; uncle Chris Parkinson; his mother, Heather Salomonson; his father, Francis Fantini II; his grandfather, Stephen Salomonson; his uncle, Peter Salomonson and his wife Debra, and their children and grandchildren; his grandfather, Francis Fantini Sr.; and his Fantini uncles, aunts and cousins.

Two events are being planned to celebrate Zack's life:

Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service for Zack at 6:30 p.m. Wed., May 17, in the auditorium of Ledyard High School, 24 Gallup HIll Road, Ledyard.

A gourmet wine reception will be held beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, May 19, at Buon Appetito Ristorante, 386 Norwich-Westerly Road, North Stonington.

The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic is assisting the family.