Philip Andrew Zuvanich, 20, of Sandy Hook, passed away suddenly on June 23, along with one of his very best friends.

He was the beloved son of Sandy and Paul Zuvanich and cherished brother to Sarah and Maggie Zuvanich. In true sibling fashion, they grew closer the older they got and developed a special bond. They could be heard laughing and sharing inside jokes and stories, understood only by them.

A lifelong resident of the area, Phil graduated from Newtown High School in 2017. Some knew him as Drew, but with the passing of his grandfather, he introduced himself as Phil, making his father proud. Following the loss of his father, he was mentored by family friends, first at Black Swan, and most recently at Ingersoll Automotive. He was well-respected by coworkers and clients and developed a new confidence in his future. When he wasn’t working or helping his family, he could be found playing video games or sharing his unique, dry sense of humor with friends. Phil’s furry best friend, DeeDee, was adopted from Spotty Dog Rescue, and they were inseparable. He will be remembered for his sparkling blue eyes, quick wit, loyalty to friends, and dedication to his family. You couldn’t find a funnier, kinder, sweeter guy than Phil.

He is survived by his mother, Sandy Zuvanich; sisters, Sarah and Maggie Zuvanich; paternal grandmother, Barbara Zuvanich of Shenandoah, Texas; maternal grandparents, Virginia and Richard Andrew Frank of Shenandoah, Iowa; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Paul Zuvanich, who died of a glioblastoma; and paternal grandfather, Philip Zuvanich, of Texas.

Friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, June 28, from 3 to 6:30 pm, at Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to Spotty Dog Rescue at spottydogrescue.org/contact-infodonations.html or the Glioblastoma Foundation at glioblastomafoundation.org/get-involved/donate.