Jaxon Joseph Podbielski, 5, of Higganum, died October 30th at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Jaxon was born in New Haven, CT, August 17th, 2019, son of Justin Podbielski and Xochil Rivera of Higganum. Jaxon was involved in a tragic drowning accident on Saturday, October 26th and unfortunately he succumbed to those injuries on October 30th. He became a hero in his final days as on Friday, November 1st, he donated his organs to save 4 lives. Even at the age of 5, he knew he wanted to make the world a better place and Friday he fulfilled his dream.
Jaxon was full of great questions and was a passionate Kindergartner at Burr Elementary School in RSD 17. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his beloved baby sister Ariela Podbielski, his Grandfather Jose Rivera, his Great Grandmother Patricia Cunningham, his aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as many beloved friends and extended family. The cross he wore around his neck was a gift from his late Grandmother, Janet DeFrancesco, whom we know is now by his side in Heaven.
Words cannot describe how much we love and miss Jaxon. He was a curious, creative, kind-hearted wonder of a son who loved his family (most of all his baby sister Ari), his dog Boone, his fish, his frog and his superhero friend Rory. Jaxon’s Mama and Dada love him so much and will forever be grateful for the 5 years we got to love him. He taught us so much about love and compassion and joy and he will be missed deeply.
Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Jaxon’s memory may be made to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/support-us). Jaxon wanted to save the world from climate change so that he could make the world safe for animals. He had a big heart for animals and talked about saving the world with his Pet Store/Zoo with such amazing detail and passion. Jaxon loved all animals: from the largest elephant to the tiniest insect and he would want us to help the Zoo “Save the Chubby Unicorns” (…rhinos).
The Lastrina Family Funeral Home, 491 High St., Middletown is in charge of arrangements.
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