Jonathan M. Gionfriddo's Obituary
Jonathan M. Gionfriddo, 23, of Stafford Springs, CT passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at UMass Memorial Medical Center. He was born in New Britain, CT, son of Brenda Boulrice and Dominic Gionfriddo. Jonathan was born with Epidermolysis Bullosa, a rare skin disorder. Although he lived a life of pain he put on a smile daily and used his humor to brighten everyone's days. He loved many things but his ultimate favorite was Thomas The Tank Engine and Steam trains from about the time he was 1 year old. Spongebob Squarepants and Nintendo’s characters Mario and Luigi would have to be a close second and third. He sat for many hours watching youtube. He loved to watch youtubers like Markiplier, Dashie, Pewdipie, and Jacksepticeye rage out playing video games. He was a huge fan of Super Mario Logan and Jeff Dunham where he got the inspiration and love for puppets. Jon Graduated with honors from Stafford High School. He also graduated from the Northeast Clown Institute in Plymouth, MA. While at High School He loved being part of Mrs. Dillon’s choir and Madrigal Feaste. Mrs. Dillon made Jon feel like every other student even though he had several limitations. Although never known to Jon, Jon was Mrs. Dillon’s measuring stick for life. He also was a huge fan of the Stafford Bulldogs and cheered them on, leading the team out with his flags at every Friday night game. Coach Mazzone and the football players made him feel included and part of the team especially in 2017 when they won the division and made sure Jon got to hold the trophy. He made many close friends on the team and in school. some of which he would consider family or even his “Homeslice” while in school. Even after graduating his favorite annual things were to go to the Madrigal feaste and a Friday night game.
Jon had a favorite puppet he would take it everywhere and use it to help cheer up others and make them laugh. Jon’s presents to his family for every holiday was to pick the things they loved most and put in a slideshow on his computer and accompanied it by music.
Jon accomplished so many things considering his limitations from his disorder and never let it discourage him. With the help of his amazing care team he had at UMASS Memorial in Worcester, MA he not only defied the odds many times but during his time with them helped to create plans and protocols to better care for others with Epidermolysis Bullosa. His care team of Dr. Wiss, Dr Gosselin, Dr Chen, Dr Bateman (Dr. “Batman” as he called him), Venessa Lafferty, Alyssa (the most amazing hemo nurse ever) and many others not only took care of him but became part of an extended family in the 20 plus years they cared for him. He refused to be seen by any other physicians or providers.
Jon was a camper and then a counselor for 12 years at Camp Discovery CT, a week long summer camp for children with disabling skin conditions, held at Camp Hemlocks and then Channel 3 Kids Camp. He was the heart and soul of the camp with his concern for the other campers, his quick wit, and his sense of humor. He faithfully participated in and emceed the camp talent show, keeping everyone entertained with his songs, dances, imitations, and poems. Typically there wasn’t a dry eye in the room after hearing from Jonathan. His unbelievable courage and his ability to bring joy was a true inspiration to the children and adults who had the privilege of spending time with him.
Jon had an amazing love of life and all those who supported him. His smile and personality made a lifelong impact more than he will ever know. He will be remembered for his Strength, bravery and love for just about anything. He was a hero and inspiration to all who met him.
Jon being Jon would love for all to come and celebrate his life as you are as he would see you everyday. Dress casual if you wish.
Jonathan is survived by his mother and stepfather, Brenda Boulrice and Bruce Laughlan; three siblings Ashley Gionfriddo, Emma Laughlan, and Cailee Laughlan; his father and stepmother, Dominic and Jennifer Gionfriddo; two step-siblings, Tyler and Isabelle Fernandez; maternal grandparents, Catherine Fletcher, and Joseph and Christine Boulrice; paternal grandparents, Salvatore and Rosemarie Gionfriddo; uncle, Michael Boulrice; and many cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his aunt, Maria Gionfriddo.
His funeral will be held on Thursday, October 27, 2022 with a procession forming at 10 AM at Introvigne Funeral Home, Inc., 51 East Main St., Stafford Springs, CT followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM at St. Edward Church, 55 High St., Stafford Springs, CT. Burial will be private. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 from 4 PM to 7 PM at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to the EB Research Partnership at ebresearch.org. To leave a message of sympathy for his family, or for directions, please visit: www.introvignefuneralhome.com
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