Christopher Ralph Zanette passed away on Friday, August 11, after a long illness.
Chris was born in Amarillo, TX and grew up in Santa Clara, CA. He completed high school at Menlo School and earned a degree in Business Administration from San Francisco State University. Chris earned his pilot’s license at 18, sparking a lifelong passion for aviation that he translated into a career in aviation insurance. He began as an underwriter for USAIG in the early 1980s before opening his own aviation insurance brokerage, Zanette Aviation Insurance Service, Inc., in 1989.
Throughout his 35+ years working in aviation insurance, Chris worked tirelessly to elevate and advance the industry. He served on the Aviation Insurance Association’s (AIA) Board of Directors as the Director of Agent/Broker Division. In recognition of his dedication, he was inducted into the AIA’s prestigious Eagle Society.
Chris is survived by his wife of forty-three years, Carla; children Christina Steach (Brian) of Redwood City and Joe Zanette (Jamila) of San Mateo; and two grandchildren Elsa and Dominic Steach.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the AIA Education Foundation in Chris’ memory. Donations can be made online or mailed to:
AIA Education Foundation
2365 Harrodsburg Road, Suite A325
Lexington, KY 40504
Please note 'In memory of Chris Zanette' on payment.