Timothy Randal Dziekan, of Willimantic, CT, passed away at around 9:00 p.m. on July 4, 2026.

While the rumbling in the skies that evening may have been confused by some for thunder and lightning, the rest of us knew it was Timmy announcing to the heavens that he had arrived.

There was irony in this date, as Tim was so proud of his military service and proud to support other veterans. He served at the American Legion as Jr. Vice Commander and Sergeant-at-Arms. Tim also became a Chaplain... well, because that was Timmy—a jack of all trades who would do anything to help a friend or family member.

Tim loved riding motorcycles, boating and fishing on Long Island Sound, throwing darts, tossing horseshoes, and "light" sparring with his fellow practitioners at America's Best Defense (ABD). But mostly, he loved spending time with his friends and family.

Tim leaves behind his two daughters, Megan and Elizabeth, both of Willimantic, whom he cherished with all his heart. He loved spending time with them, whether it was shooting pool, tipping over four-wheelers, hitting baseballs into the neighbor's yard, sledding down snow-covered hills, or spending a day at the amusement park.

Tim is survived by his momma, Pearl, and her husband, Frank Chaska, of Louisburg, North Carolina; and by his four siblings: his favorite sister, Laurie Savino, and her husband, Danny; Gary Dziekan and his wife, Carol; Douglas Dziekan and his wife, Jennifer; and David Dziekan and his lifetime partner, Paige.

He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews, who affectionately knew him as Uncle Timmy—the favorite and the fun uncle: Heather (Jeremy), Richie (Julie), Melissa, Morgan, Emily, Gregory (Audrey), Brianna, Jasmine, Zachary, Sam, Lauren, Caroline, Lauren, Brooke, Hannah, Carter, Trey, Savannah, Mia, Lucas, Braylee, Brinley, Brantley, and Kayden.

Although Tim had great love for all of his nieces and nephews, some were more like the little brothers he never had, even sharing the same birthday. Others were like the son he never had, sharing endless boating and fishing adventures aboard Shark Bait, Shameless, and other dubiously named vessels.

Tim was predeceased by his father, Dennis Dziekan, who inspired his love of the ocean but will surely give him hell for coming to greet him too early.

Tim lived life full of spirit, smiles, and laughs. Always in the moment and always full of heart. Sometimes a bit too loud, sometimes a bit too wild, sometimes a bit too fast—but always full of good intentions.

The last two months have been a roller coaster of hope and despair after a tragic motorcycle accident on May 1, 2026. The family would like to thank everyone for all of their love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Special thanks to the American Legion for hosting a fundraiser last month, the nurses at Hartford Hospital ICU for caring for him over the last nine weeks, everyone who contributed to his GoFundMe, and the countless other gestures of goodwill that lifted his spirits—including things that can't even be written about. Ruthie... ;-)

Tim was surrounded by nearly 20 of his closest family members at the time of his passing. He was showered with kisses, his hands were held, his scalp was gently caressed, and he heard continuous "I love you's" and "We are so proud of you for the tremendous fight you put up, giving all of us the chance to say our goodbyes."

Uncle Timmy Strong!

RIP. We will miss you. We will forever carry this hole in our hearts in exchange for your everlasting peace and comfort.

Calling hours at Potter Funeral Home are planned for July 16, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

A Celebration of Life is planned for August 23 at the French Club Pavilion, beginning at noon.