Alexander “Big Al”Zielinski Jr

Dec. 29, 1937 – Jan. 4, 2005

Alexander “Big Al” Zielinski Jr., age 67, passed away at his Mishawaka home on Victoria Street on the morning of January 4. He was born to the late Alex and Julia Zielinski in South Bend on December 29, 1937.He is survived by sister, Joan (Ben) Cecrle of West Melbourne, Florida, and brother, Richard “Zeke”Zielinski of South Bend.

Big Al dedicated his life to serving his country, community and family. After graduating from Washington High School, he joined the Navy and served for four years in Alaska. He then joined the Mishawaka Fire Department where he spent 22 years until his retirement in 1986. He retired from the St.Francis Convent after 15 years of helping the building and maintenance crews in 2001.Currently working at Mishawaka Hardware and serving as an usher at Granger Community Church and the Notre Dame JACC, Al was always there to help people.

On June 3, 1961, Al married Judith L.Watson in Mishawaka. Along with his wife of 43 years, he is survived by daughters, Cheryl (Scott) Chase and Carin (Mike) Avery;and his grandchildren, Samuel, Caitlyn, Nicholas, Madelyn and Alex, all of Granger. Additional survivors include Tom and Diane Watson, John Watson and Jerry Dunn, Ric and Anne Watson, Bob and Vicki Watson, Mike and Mary Lou Watson, Sam and Kathy Watson, and sisters-in- law, Rachael and Ruth Ann.

Funeral services will be held in First Baptist Church today, January 8.Visitation will start at 10:00 a.m. with the funeral at 11:00 a.m.Burial will follow at St.Joseph Valley Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St.Joseph County, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637

Source: Newspapers.com

04/27/2024 EJS