Christopher Arena

Chris "Krzychu" Arena, 52, of Finderne, NJ passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at his home.

Born in New Brunswick, NJ to his beloved mother, Joanne Arena and father, Edward Hultberg. Chris grew up in Somerset County, living most of his life in the Finderne section of Bridgewater. 

Chris is predeceased by his grandparents, Theadore and Margaret Zuchowski, mother Joanne Arena, father, Edward Hultberg, sister, Rosaria Carone, and brother, Joseph T  Arena. 

Chris (Like Jesus) was a carpenter by trade. He was a long time member of the New Jersey Carpenters Union Local #254. Working alongside his mentor and loving godfather, Vinnie Kosinski. On any given weekend, you would find Chris helping a family member or friend build a deck, lay carpet, or install countless boards of sheetrock. A passionate advocate for animals, he always left his garage door open and cared for an array of critters such as cats, raccoons, and even skunks!

Chris will forever be remembered for his sharp wit and quick sense of humor. His larger than life personality was a force of nature, leaving an unforgettable mark on everyone he encountered. 

Chris grew up on the Raritan River where he enjoyed fishing with his brothers, Mike and Joe. These cherished moments were spent cracking jokes and reciting lines from movie classics like Casino, Young Guns, The Godfather, and Jaws. "You're gonna need a bigger boat" - Chief Brody.

Chris is survived by his wife, Evelyn M. Arena, brothers, Michael Arena (Lisa) of Somerville, Salvatore Arena (Joanne) of Long Island, NY, Sisters, Jennifer Hall (Danny) of Somerville, Cynthia Hisko (Glenn) of Bridgewater, aunt Claire Noll (Charles) of Finderne, cousin, Gina Hector of Bridgewater, and his beloved godmother, Maryanne Mancuso (Felix) of Middlesex. 

Nephews and Nieces, Ryan, Christopher, Matthew, Michael, David, Amanda, Dayna, Julianna, Joseph Jr., Tyler, Kailey and Colton. 

Grand Nephews and Nieces, Jaxon, Ella, Ashton, Layla, and Noah. 

As well as a multitude of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at the Bridgewater Funeral Home located at 707 E. Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ 08807. A burial will take place in March 2025.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of Somerset County in Chris's honor. 

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