Jonathan Gregory Zanger

Pawtucket - Jonathan Gregory Zanger, 64, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 13th, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Celia D. (Donohue) Zanger for twenty-nine loving years.

Born in Astoria, Queens, New York, he was the son of the late David Hinda Zanger and Marlene (Fishbeck) Zanger. Jon spent his formative years in Shrub Oak, New York, where he found his nerd niche in the weather club and the AV club. He had come to Rhode Island shortly after marrying and resided in Lincoln, before moving to Pawtucket in 2002. He was everyone's favorite "loveable curmudgeon". He kept us on our toes, but we all knew he loved us like a slightly bossy older brother. A true foodie, he was in his element making and trying food and enjoying it with people.

His warm presence and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jon is survived by his devoted wife, Celia D. (Donohue) Zanger and their cherished German daughter, Nina Fischer-Yargici, who resides in Wivenhoe, UK. He also leaves behind his loving sister, Suzanne McAuliffe of Ft. Myers, Florida, and his nephew, Sean McAuliffe and niece, Taylor McAuliffe.

A man of diverse interests, Jon was the proprietor of the former Treats My Dog Eats, where he combined his entrepreneurial spirit with his love for animals. He had been an active participant in the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA), particularly with the Barony of the Bridge, for more than 25 years where he found joy in historical re-creation and camaraderie. Jon was also a skilled darts player, competing in local dart leagues, and he found great enjoyment in computer and video gaming.

Celia has chosen a venue for the celebration of life party for Jon. I think he would approve. We will be celebrating at The Guild Brew Hall in Pawtucket on Saturday, November 29th from 3-8 pm. We will be in a corner of the main taproom so there will be other patrons there as well, but it will give us room to expand if we need to.

I will be bringing lots of games to play, and I welcome you to bring your favorite as well. Dogs are welcome as long as they stay on a leash. Children are also welcome. They don't need to be on a leash, but we need to keep them from running and yelling and disturbing the other patrons. I enthusiastically encourage everyone to wear purple! Even if it's only a little.

The Guild will provide some basic appetizers, but what would a Jon party be without those who like to share dishes doing so. Bring something that reminds you of him! There will be lots of foodie friends there. We CANNOT bring any alcohol. The Guild always has a wonderful selection of local craft brews available.

Let's send Jon off in the style he would enjoy; surrounded by loved ones enjoying each other's company and paying attention to him! I love you all and look forward to sharing hugs and smiles and crazy stories.

Spread the word of you know if anyone who would like to join us.

The Guild

461 Main St, Pawtucket, RI 02860

Saturday, November 29, 2025

3-8pm

Visitation and flowers are respectfully omitted.

Memorial gifts to the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 155 Plan Way, Warwick, RI 02886 would be appreciated. Arrangements are entrusted to William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket. For online condolences or to share memories please visit TrippFuneralHome.com. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.