Obituary of Diane Elizabeth Gondek

Diana Elizabeth (Wilcox) Gondek, 88 of Glastonbury, beloved wife of the late Donald Richard Gondek, Sr., died on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Hartford Hospital. She was born in Hartford on September 8, 1936 to the late Ernest and Elizabeth (D’Alessio) Wilcox. Diana’s passion for all animals lead her to purchase and run Tropical Isle in Glastonbury, from 1979-1985 with her husband. When they retired, they moved to Hilton Head and eventually to Florida. Diana loved country music and Tom Jones, who she got to see one last time weeks before her passing. Her favorite place to visit was Nashville where she got to meet many singers and celebrities. She loved going for car rides with her husband and later with her daughter Karen. She also loved bingo with her many dear friends. Diana is survived by her four children, Linda Ryder and her husband Dennis, of Coventry, Donald R. Gondek, Jr., of Glastonbury, Roger Gondek and his wife Liz of Frisco, TX, and Karen Hardwick of Glastonbury. She is also survived by Michelle Faucher Garland, who she loved like her own, her grandchildren, Michael Gott, Ryan Gott, Carly Barr and her husband Roger, Alexandra Gondek and her partner Adrian Paulding, Dylan Gondek and his wife Lauryn, as well as her great grandchildren, Dahlia Gott and Skyler Barr. A private burial was held at Holy Cross Cemetery in Glastonbury. A celebration of life is being planned for a later date, details will be made available at www.mulryanfh.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Protectors of Animals (poainc.org)