Gene and Eileen "Teen" Zanoni Obituary

Gene and Eileen Zanoni passed away after a loving life together. Gene was preceded in death by his brother Leon Zanoni. Eileen is survived by her two younger brothers, Gary and Bob Dunn. They also leave behind their beloved nieces, nephews and dog Pesto. Gene was born in 1947 and graduated from Granite High in 1966. He served in Vietnam as a paratrooper, earning medals for his bravery. He built a successful career in concrete and construction, retiring from Alta View Concrete in 2018. Eileen, born in 1949, graduated from Murray High in 1968. They met in 1971 at a bail bonds shop where Eileen worked. When Gene walked in, she later recalled, he was the most beautiful man she had ever seen and looked like Kris Kristofferson. For the next 50 years, they were inseparable. Gene loved fishing, and his trips with friends were filled with funny stories and unforgettable moments. Gene stayed close to his friends seeing many of them every day at the American Legion, up until his last days. Eileen was the heart of the family, offering a listening ear to her nieces and nephews, who adored her and called her Teen. She had an extraordinary ability to accept and love everyone without judgment. Their home was the center of family gatherings, especially holiday celebrations where Gene cooked and Teen welcomed everyone with open arms. Friday Taco Nights with Bob’s family were a cherished tradition. Gene and Teen did not have children but would introduce their nieces as their “kids”. Their beloved pets were also cherished members of their family, treated as their children. From King, their first dog, to Xena, Guido, and Charlie the cat, who Teen adopted/stole from their neighbor. Their last pet, Pesto, now resides with their niece and nephew, Jaimie and Diego. Their relationship was full of humor and legendary arguments that were never serious. Their bond was truly unbreakable. Up until the end Gene remained Teen’s devoted caretaker, showing the meaning of true love and commitment. They leave behind a family who adored them, lifelong friends, countless cherished memories, and a reminder of what it means to love unconditionally. Graveside services for Gene and Eileen will be held at the Murray Cemetery on March 7th at 1pm, followed by a memorial gathering at the American Legion post 112 at 3pm (320 E. 3900 S.). In lieu of flowers the family ask you send donations to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Salt Lake https://www.gslclubs.org