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Lawrence Zelina Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Lawrence Zelina
Joseph Horvat
April 21, 2025
Well buddy, It´s been 20 years and we´ll be coming down to visit your gravesite sometime in the next month. Just can´t believe it´s been this long. I really miss you and your friendship. I look back to those wonderful memories and laugh with tears in my eyes. Just remember to save a place for Bob, John, Larry "Ali", and I, we´ll let you be our tour guide. See you next month!
April 1, 2018
THERE IS NOWHERE I WILL GO...
THAT YOU ARE NOT WITH ME.
ALL MY LOVE...
ALL MY LIFE,
Lorie
March 31, 2018
when larry held a book signing event at the barnes and noble in Mayfield hts. back in 1998, i think, i went up there to see larry and purchase the book . when larry saw me ,he was really glad to see an old teammate from benny.it felt really good that he remembered me. he had lunch earlier that day with his "67" teammates at tgifs , you guys all know who you are. a terrific group of friends. larry , 20 years later , thank you for your kindness that day, by the way , the book is excellent!
Steve Beres
March 31, 2014
I remember Larry as a great football player and a great guy! God bless his family. '67
sherry kuhn
March 21, 2014
lori iam so sorry, I was trying to look you up on facebook and couldn't find you, so I put larrys name in and I found out that he pass in 05. ok this is sherry Kuhn, how are you? iam living in napa ca. now been here for nine years. please try to get a hold of me though face book or 707 501 3868 or my friends phone doug, 707 287 8290. I would love to talk with you. again iam so sorry, larry was the best.
Paulette Fellows
August 12, 2006
Lorie,
I just heard of Larry's passing and I was shocked and saddenned by it. I haven't been home for 15 years, but I will always remember you and Larry inviting me into your home and making me family. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Chuck Mancuso
December 26, 2005
I was extremely saddened by the passing of Larry. I heard the news on Christmas Day, 2005 from another great Benedictine football player, Sal Collura...Class of 1963. I went to school at St Henry's, played football with his brother Bob, and graduated in 1964 with Bob from Benedictine. During football practice at St. Henry's, I remember beating Larry by a hair in a 50 yard dash. What I didn't mention is that Larry was three years younger than me. He was 8 years old. At St. Henry's I wore the # 45 jersey. The next year, Larry was issued that jersey. He was a great person from a great family and the greatest football player who ever suited up in a Benedictine Bengal Blue and White uniform. Larry wore his brother Bob's # 65 jersey at Benedictine. The next year, they changed the rules and he had to wear a running back's number. I believe it was # 44.
Sal Collura mentioned to me that after he graduated, he gave Larry his Benedictine Letter Jacket because of some difficult financial situation they had at that time. True "Men of Benedictine."
He will be in my prayers.
Rest in Peace,
Chuck Mancuso...Class of 1964.
Ron Zelina
November 29, 2005
First i want to express my deepest sympathy to the entire family,as i am an ardent OSU fan...Secondly i think we are distant cousins, as my family is from youngstown ohio, and zelina is not a common name...My deepest sympathy....Ron Zelina
Jim Sickora '90
October 21, 2005
Larry came for a special assembly when I was a student. His talk with us was most encouraging. He truly knew what it was to be a "Man of Benedictine", and that all of us had the potential to create a more positive future for ourselves. He will be missed.
John Petro
October 16, 2005
He's a man who's a man; he's a Benedictine man. Who? Larry Zelina.
Nick Butina
October 12, 2005
My condolenses go out to the Zelina family. I am a current member of the BHS family (freshman) and look up to the man. He is very inspiring. My grandfather knew him and told me alot about him and I wish I could have known him. So, Zelina family, I am very sorry. His tradition and contribution to the BHS family will never be forgotten.
gerry modzelewski
October 5, 2005
although i never met mr. zelina he was always an inspiration . bhs class of '74
cali elbe
October 3, 2005
i loved him.
Don Hixon
August 9, 2005
I became acquainted with Larry probably about 1988, I had a Stanley Steemer franchise at the time and was introduced to Larry and Chuck Aldrin. I secured a policy with them, and later did business with Larry at Archer Meek Weiler. Larry was very personable, and sold me some pretty good tickets for a Michigan game, I'll never forget that. My sympathy to the Zelina family.
Kirk Allton
June 29, 2005
My condolences go out to Lorie and the Zelina family. Larry was a very nice guy. My Dad died of cancer two years ago, and before he died I gave him a copy of Larry's book. Larry signed it to my Dad. My Dad and I always bonded through Ohio State football, and he and I went through the book while he was sick and relived the '68 season. I will be able to pass that book on down to my son, and it will always be special.
Tom Rafferty Jr
May 28, 2005
To the Family of Larry Zelina: I attended Benedictine High Scool w/Larry, and graduated in 1967. I will always remember that Larry had a kind word and smile for everyone, whether you were active in Sports or not. I just found out about his death and I am still unbelieving. May the family know that Larry and his family will be in my prayers. May he rest in Peace, and may the light from Heaven shine down upon his family
Tom Rafferty #936, class of '67 BHS
Glenn Koyl
May 27, 2005
I got to see Mr. Zelina play my freshman year at OSU. He was a special person on a special team.
It was only after my son Sam played for the Bengals that I learned how really big and special he was.
Dawn Welsh
May 24, 2005
Lorie, Michael, Julie & Kristie,
I was so shocked to hear of Larry's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Life moves quick and it doesn't seem like 15 years could have passed since I babysat the "kids". I will always remember Larry's smile, laugh and how he would always speak of you and the kids with such pride. Larry will be missed by any and all that had the great fortune to meet and know him.
Thomas Presits
May 7, 2005
My sympathy to Larry's family.It is sad to see a great person and a tradition of Benedictine High School leaving us.He was always a very good example for me and many other students at BHS.
Class of "70"
Anthony Lukianowicz
May 2, 2005
I did not know Mr. Larry Zelina personally but nonetheless was shocked by the news of his passing. The name of Larry Zeleina was one that was regularly brought up with my son who graduated in 2002 and played several sports at BHS. I went to Benedictine High School for only two years - the junior and senior years for Mr. Zelina. Without a doubt, the greatest high school footbal player I have ever seen. This is a man who played over and above his significant God-given ablities. But what I remember most is his quiet modesty and his gentleman behavior. Larry Zelina epitomized the true "Man of Benedictine". There will never be another quite like him. I consider him the standard by which all other great high school football players are judged. My condolences to the Zelina family.
Randy Woodruff
April 24, 2005
I'm very sorry to hear of the passing of Larry.I didn't know him,but I'm certain he was a good man.I have the book he wrote : Ohio State 68' All The Way To The Top. I have read through it several times and being a Buckeye Fan,enjoyed it immensely.Buckeye Fans everywhere love that team and everyone on it.I am saddened by this loss.
joseph martanovic
April 21, 2005
I first met Larry in a pick-up football game in 1959. Got to know him the next year when his dad, Red, was our coach on the B-Buzz Red Sox. Was with him at Saint Henrys and Benedictine, and saw him for the last time in late February at Benedictine's Football Raffle Dinner.We shared some good conversation, a drink, and, of course, memories and laughs. He was a fine gentleman with a spirit that lives on.
Raymond Zidjunas
April 21, 2005
From myself (63) and my brother Rich(64), we express our deepest condolence
John F. Szuch
April 18, 2005
My prayers and sympathies to the family of the greatest football player to ever play for the Benedictine Bengals! I have been a Bengals fan since 1948 and have seen most of the great players since, but in my mind Larry will always be my favorite player. I guess Larry must have been a favorite of God also because he called him early to play on his team. I know a lot of your fans picture you in scarlett and grey, but I will always picture you in Benedictine Columbia blue and white.
Larry, you are in my prayers daily. Thanks for the great memories.
John, BHS 1955
Kim (Zelina) McFarland
April 12, 2005
Aunt Lorie, Michael, Julie, Kristie,
I just happened upon this guest book as I was reading about Uncle Larry. I still cry, but I am so proud of him. I think about you guys everyday. I love you all so much!!!
Bob Brandt
April 10, 2005
As a classmate of Larry I have been deeply saddened by his sudden loss. though at Benedictine we were not close friends he did inspire me to succed in the face of adversity. I remenber our 25th reunion and how Larry lit up the cafeteria, his joy of being with his fellow classmates and how he had time for one and all. The special moment is when he took off that National Championship ring and we all got to share in that joy he had in wearing it. I have a OSU #16 jersey in my den, a miniture OSU helmet, and the book signed by Larry. Those have become real treasures for me for they now bring back fond memories of a very special clasmate and friend.
Sorry this has taken so long to write Lorie as i did not realize this Guest Book existed. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family at this time.
Sincerely Bob Brandt 67
Jim Laughlin
April 6, 2005
Woody always spoke to us that "hero worship" was a great thing. We young boys from Cleveland idolized our hero at OSU from Benedictine- Larry Zelina.
Although I didn't know him well, I was touched by his warmth and engaging manner at homecoming and other football functions. While all of us players are naturally more comfortable with our teammates; I was struck by Larry's outgoing interest in others, and going out of his way to befriend me and other younger and older fellow buckeyes.
Having lost my own son, ( a future Buckeye great no doubt) I feel enormous sorrow for your loss of Larry before his time. There will always be a hole in your heart over his passing; but take solace in the fact that he lived a great life, had a wonderful family and Larry touched many of us during his lifetime.
Gary Barnes
April 6, 2005
On behalf of my family, we wish to express our deepest sympathy and sadness to the Zelina family. Knowing Larry and his family from the St. Henry days through Benedictine H.S. era, I lost a dear friend. Being two years young, Larry was my mentor,my hero. He influenced me in my college decision by saying, "Go to a school where you can be successful early in your football career. After that things will fall into place". Little did I know, how right he was. I will miss you and I thank you for influencing my life, not only as an athlete, but as a person.
John Mudri
April 6, 2005
So sad to see a part of Benedictine High School Tradition gone. My sympathy to Larry's family.
Class of "63"
larry armbrister
April 5, 2005
It truly has been a trying few days for all of us..though only worked with Larry a few months..his memory will be with me a LOT - longer..blessings to you & your's..
Jesse & Peggy Dunagan
April 4, 2005
Dear Lorie...both Peggy and I will forever remember Larry...his smile, kindness, humor and friendship will always be so very special to us. We can only begin to imagine how hard it is for you and the family at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Beau Castilla
April 4, 2005
I am very sorry to hear about you loss. Though I did not know Mr. Zelina, I did have the chance to get to know his daughter, Kristie.
Godbless
Beau Castilla
Valerie Finch
April 4, 2005
Lorie, I share your pain and your grief. Larry was a wonderful husband, father and friend. He will be sadly missed by all.
Ike Kelley
April 4, 2005
Larry was a great friend and even a greater person. My life is far more enriched for having what I consider a very special relationship with him. No longer will he say Hi Dad, and I return the greeting, by saying Hi Son. All too soon, his voice was silenced. I will miss him greatly.
Bob Golias
April 4, 2005
A True Man Of Benedictine
James Heller
April 3, 2005
Our prayers and heartfelt sympathy
go to Lorie and the entire family.
We were indeed priviledged to know a true gentleman and class act.
The Zelina family will remain in our prayers.
Janice, James and William Heller
Cynthia Nelson
April 3, 2005
Lorie, I am so saddened to hear about Larry. What a wonderful person he was. He touched so many lives especilly mine. I'm so glad I saw the two of you this past summer. Although I can't be there, I am in spirit and I know our friend Diane is close by. My heart, thoughts, Love and prayers are with you.
Cindy
Randy, Tammy, Erin and Colby Francis
April 2, 2005
Lori and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow.
Chris, Sherry, Christopher and Lauren Francis
April 2, 2005
Lori and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow.
Love your cousin,
Chris Francis and family
Phil Strickland
April 2, 2005
Larry (Z-man)we are all going to miss you. Us AYO's will join you and the rest of the team on the bus when we hear the call RED 1 and Bucks first bus in the future.
May God bless your family and know that I was blessed to have known you as a friend and team mate.
Phillip & Denise Strickland,
Brian and Marilyn (Szabo) Breen
April 2, 2005
I will always have cherished memories of the wonderful childhood we shared as cousins. Nothing can replace the holidays, summer vacations, and the family gatherings for those great cookouts. Our deepest sympathy to Lori, Michael, Julie and Kristie. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
RonaldandLoretta Russell
April 2, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family's in this time of great sorrow. Masses being offered for" Larry " at The
Passionists Memorial Program. MERCIFUL JESUS, I TRUST IN THEE.
Sincere Condolances,Ron and Loretta Russell
RonaldandLoretta Russell
April 2, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family's in this time of sorrow.Merciful Jesus, I Trust in Thee.
Sandra Sarkkinen-Hayes
April 2, 2005
Dear Lorie and Family, My Dad, Sark, was one of Larry's coaches during the great National Championship years. Dad heralded Larry for his excellent work ethic and leadership qualities. His presence will be deeply missed.
Todd Alles
April 2, 2005
I first met Larry when he sold me a 1986 Honda while working for Rousch Honda. We struck up an immediate friendship when he discovered we had both played for the Buckeyes, just like Woody told us we would. The fact that I was a walk on made no difference, Z treated me like an equal. I just talked with him on the phone about a month ago, asking advice. I'll miss being able to do that and hearing his honest response. He was a man's man and Buckeye Nation mourns his loss. I send my heart felt condolences to his family.
Dan Zelna
April 2, 2005
As a young boy i recall my grandfather Paul Zelna and my father Robert getting together to "watch cousin larry play" at OSU on tv. To my grandfather and dad Larry was always a source of great family pride. May God bless his family at this time of sudden and tragic loss. The Zelina (Zelna) men who have now gone leave us with lasting examples of what pride and character can accomplish !
Jason Simmons(Former Buckeye 89'-93')
April 2, 2005
It's always sad to hear about a Buckeye player that has passed on. Our prayers are with you.
Kathy Dague
April 1, 2005
With love and sympathy, your in our hearts.
Your Cousin,
Kathy & Gary Dague
xoxoxoxo..........
PAUL PINKY JOHNSON
April 1, 2005
I WAS A GOOD FRIEND OF LARRY'S FROM GRADE SCHOOL UP .EVERY TIME I CAME TO COLUMBUS WE WOULD MEET . WE USED TO PRACTICE FOOTBALL AT WARRENSVILLE HIGH IN THE THE SUMMERS. I WILL MISS HIM . MY SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO HIS FAMLY AND FRIENDS GOD BLESS PAUL "PINKY"JOHNSON
Jerry, Carol & Eric Francis
April 1, 2005
Lorie and family,
We have not seen or talked to you in a long while but we will always have memories. Sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you all.
Bobby Hyatt
April 1, 2005
Although I never met Larry, he made an impact on my life with his determination and style of play. A few years later, I was honored to play his position and wear the Scarlet and Gray. Good people leave a legacy of service to others and to God, and Larry was surely among the best. My sympathy goes out to his family as we all celebrate his life.
Fed Kabat
April 1, 2005
My heart goes out to the Zelina family I sendmy deepest sympathy.Larry was a true friend he
wiil be sorely missed he was truly a
a Man of Benedictine
Fred Kabat Benedictine Grad of 1948
John "Doc" Curva
April 1, 2005
I was shocked to hear of the death of a life long friend. I've known "Z" all my life, played grade school football with Bob & Larry, worked with "Z" counting cars, & loading bannas, cantilopes & lettuce at the food terminal. Pitched horseshoes with Red & Joe Horvath, always enjoyed "Z's" laughs. The last time I saw Larry was two yrs ago in Columbus, we got together for a drink, it was like no time had past& we picked up where we left off the last time we were together.
My deepest sympathy goes out to his family. I will truly miss my buddy "Z" and tonight I will lift my glass(The nectar of the gods as he used to put it) & toast to you Larry Zelina, a life long friend.
Amy Perdue
April 1, 2005
I have known Larry for only a few years, but it feels as if I have known him forever. His big heart, spirit and humor is what I will miss most. Just hearing his laugh would always make me smile. He will be truly missed and never forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, whom he loved so much.
Sharon Davis
April 1, 2005
I had the pleasure of working with Larry for a short time. I will never forget his laugh and the stories he would share about his family. Lori, you and the children
were his life. God Bless you all.
Steve Crapser
April 1, 2005
Larry was a fellow team mate at Ohio State. We are truly sadden for your loss and our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. Larry was one of those guys who made every one feel great just being around him. Through his efforts the 25th Reunion was a great success in bringing our team mates, the community together to celebrate "One Moment in Time". As a result a significant amount of money was raised for the Woody and Anne Hayes Scholarship.
We will all miss his spirit, inspiration and giving forward.
Tracy Schermer, MD
April 1, 2005
I only met Larry once through baseball in High School. We played against Benedictine...
It was football that prompted our discussion...for we both played for teams that were 1-2 in the city of Cleveland..we wanted a chance to play each other and find out who was the better team....never happened. He went on to play for the OSU Buckeyes and I went to Viet Nam. I followed his caeer then and was thrilled to see his success. He was wonderful and always conducted himself in kindness and generosity. A true hero.
I want to extend to his family my sincere condolences and prayers for you all,
Tracy W. Schermer, MD
Cleveland Heights High School graduate
Garth Cox
April 1, 2005
As a member of the Buckeye football family Larry always had a kind word whenever we would happen to see one another at a Varsity O gathering. Coach Hayes had a saying that "you win with people." Larry was one of the people to whom Coach Hayes was referring.
Tom Skladany
April 1, 2005
Fellow Bucyeyes and friends of the family....we lost a great man. Never without a smile and the heart of a lion. Zman will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. We will mourn for a short while...but remember him forever. Goodbye Z
David Wells
April 1, 2005
My prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.
Karen Pirtle
April 1, 2005
I've known and considered Larry a friend as well as co-worker for many years. He was a wonderful person, with a quick wit and big heart. My heart goes out to Lori and the children, whom he loved more than anything. May God bless you and comfort you during this very difficult time.
Jim Kirkwood
April 1, 2005
I am truly sorry and shocked to hear of your loss.I will truly miss Larry and his stories of O S U and Woody Hayes. Lary will always be in my prayer's.
GLENN AND JOAN NOVAK
April 1, 2005
Larry and I played both football and baseball together at Benedictine High School. One of my fondest memories of him was the l965 charity game. He was to me as to many others a true "MAN OF BENEDICTINE", an outstanding student, athlete, Christian and most importantly a friend. His athletic abilities have yet to be matched by anyone. We send our love, prayers and condolences to his wife, children, family and friends. Love Glenn and Joan Novak and Family
Lynn Fosnaugh
April 1, 2005
"The Coach" always brightened up each day with a smile and a "How are you, Miss Lynn?", and his never-ending blonde jokes he would send. He was a wonderful coworker and a caring friend who always had time to listen. He will leave a big hole in all our hearts. My prayers go out to Lorie and children that he loved so much.
Mark Price
April 1, 2005
On behalf of my family, we are proud to have called Larry a friend. We are shocked and saddened that this jovial, caring, sincere and friendly man has left us so soon. Our thoughts are with the family.
Mark, Jason and Jennifer Price
Robin Frank
April 1, 2005
My family and I are very sorry for your loss,I will be praying for you and your family.
All my love,
Robin and family
Carla Reeve
April 1, 2005
Larry will be missed everyday. I sat next to his office and would chuckle when I heard him laugh. I would smile when I heard him talking to Lorie so sweetly each morning. What a great role model and friend he was. My deepest sympathy to his lovely wife and great kids.
Tom Rarick
April 1, 2005
I never met Larry, but as a football fan I felt like I knew him. My deepest sympathy to and my prayers for the Zelina family.
Tom VASJ '58
Donald & Jennifer Francis
April 1, 2005
You are in our thoughts & prayer's.
Michele Doersam-Morse
April 1, 2005
WE ARE SORRY FOR YOUR SUDDEN LOSS, LARRY WAS A DEAR MAN. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL.
Nick Yantorn
April 1, 2005
I am very saddened today, Larry was an outstanding person in many ways. He will be missed by all of us who knew and respected him, not only as a great football player, but as a great christian man.
Chris Hoover
April 1, 2005
I will miss Larry's laugh and tidbits about his glory days at OSU. Larry always said to me "Just you and the rent buddy" after I asked him "What's up" everyday. Now I can add him to the things that are up(in heaven).
My prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends. Here's to you 'ol #16. GO BUCKS!!!!
Diane Thole (Szabo)
April 1, 2005
I am so sorry to hear about Larry. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Sally Dellinger
April 1, 2005
I want to offer my personal condolences to the Zelina family. Larry and I were both involved in the leadership of our respective Varsity O organizations at the same time, and one could recognize his passion and dedication to OSU athletes past and present.
Gail Boucher
April 1, 2005
Larry will be remembered as one who always had a smile, a joke, or something nice to say every day. We will miss him so much at Archer-Meek-Weiler. I've had the pleasure of working with him for the past 5 1/2 years. My heartfelt sympathies to the family.
DOUGLAS KEMPSKI
April 1, 2005
My deepest sympathy to all. I was shocked and devastated at the news.
Norma Johanni
April 1, 2005
Thinking of you and cannot imagine your grief! Prayers......Norma
Dick and Carol Oravec
April 1, 2005
Our deepest sympathies to you, Mike, Julie and Kristi. Know you are in our hearts and prayers.
Joe Harper
April 1, 2005
We are all shocked and deeply saddened at your loss. Larry was a good friend and active board member of the Varsity O Association where I knew him best. He will be greatly missed.
Susan Roeder
April 1, 2005
All my love and prayers are with you and your family.
Ronald McCandless
April 1, 2005
Larry was and always will be remembered by me as more than just a classmate @ Benedictine. He will be missed.
Cathy Smith
April 1, 2005
I am deeply sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
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