Christopher Joseph Hessel, affectionately known as CJ, 47, of Fairfield, passed away unexpectedly on February 26, 2026. His sudden departure has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew him. CJ was a loving husband to Nicole Verzaro Hessel, a dedicated father to his beloved daughters Harlee and Ryder, and a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend. His warm personality, unwavering dedication, and zest for life touched everyone around him, and his loss is deeply felt across the community.
CJ was born on March 18, 1978, to James and Patricia Ryan Hessel in Chicago, Illinois. Growing up in a close-knit family and a lifelong resident of Fairfield, he exemplified strength, determination, and kindness from a young age. His childhood was filled with sports and outdoor activities, which laid the foundation for his natural athletic abilities and competitive spirit. CJ’s passion for sports was evident early on; he was a standout basketball player at Fairfield High School, earning recognition for his talent, leadership, and work ethic. His dedication to excellence on the court earned him respect from coaches and teammates alike.
Following high school, CJ attended the University of Connecticut (UCONN), where he continued to excel athletically and academically. He was a three-year starter on the university’s football team and was elected team captain during his senior year—a testament to his leadership qualities, resilience, and teamwork. His college years not only honed his athletic skills but also instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and perseverance.
After college, CJ spent most of his professional life in the insurance and financial services industry. His work ethic and leadership skills propelled him to success, culminating in his most recent role as Senior Vice President at Alliant Insurance Services. Colleagues and clients alike admired him for his integrity, professionalism, and genuine care for others. Despite his busy career, CJ always prioritized his family and personal passions, finding joy and balance in his life.
CJ’s passions extended beyond his profession. He was an avid lover of water-based activities, especially boating. Since he was just eight years old, he found solace and happiness on the water, often spending weekends in his boat on the Long Island Sound. Whether relaxing with family, fishing, or simply cruising, CJ found immense joy in being on the water. When not boating, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle, embracing the thrill and freedom that came with it. Despite his many hobbies, nothing brought him more happiness than spending quality time with his wife and daughters, Harlee and Ryder. Family was his greatest treasure, and his smile would light up whenever he was with them or his close friends.
CJ is survived by his loving wife Nicole, his daughters Harlee and Ryder, his parents James and Patricia Hessel, his siblings Sara (Yanni) Taxiltaridis, Tricia (Nick) Cicogna, and Jonathan Hessel. He also leaves his mother and father-in-law, John and Nancy Verzaro, brother-in-law John (Hanna) Verzaro II, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and friends who loved him dearly. His kindness, humor, and generosity touched all who knew him, and his absence will be deeply mourned.
A visitation will be held at the Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Rd., on Friday, March 6, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10:00 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 149 South Pine Creek Rd., Fairfield. The community is invited to join in celebrating CJ’s life, sharing stories, and paying tribute to a man who lived with passion, integrity, and love. CJ’s legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.