Erich Heinz Dinnan, 29, of Stratford, formerly of Newtown, the beloved son of Jay and Petra Dinnan, died unexpectedly June 3. He was born in Stamford and raised in Newtown.

Mr Dinnan graduated from Newtown High School in 2007. He was a free spirit who has traveled and lived across the country, making many friends along the way. He found peace in Colorado, where he always longed to return. Mr Dinnan loved life and was loyal to his family and friends, whom he treated with respect, compassion, kindness, and sincerity. He loved music and the outdoors, often combining the two. He enjoyed snowboarding and fishing, and had a love for animals. He was first in line to help family and friends.

In addition to his parents, his loving sisters, Terra Ulrich-Hiple and her husband, Jason Hiple, of Bolivar, Ohio, and Samantha Dinnan and her husband, Michael Connor, of London, England, survive him. He will also be dearly missed by his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Lois Dinnan of Dennis, Mass.; as well as a nephew, nieces, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

His maternal grandparents, Heinz Erich and Hildegard Koenig, predeceased him.

His loved ones say, "Erich, shine on like the star you are, we know you will always be here with us. You will be deeply missed by all until we meet again."

Mr Dinnan's life will be celebrated Friday, June 8, at noon, at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 85 Mount Pleasant Road, Newtown. All other services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Newtown Parent Connection, PO Box 187, Newtown CT 06470.

To sign his online guestbook, visit shaughnesseybanksfuneralhome.com.