John Peter ZAZA

JOHN PETER (Jack) ZAZA October 12, 1930 - June 24, 2022 John Peter (Jack) Zaza passed away peacefully, on June 24, 2022, with family by his side. Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife, Cecilia, in April 2022; and by his daughter, Ann, in 2019. Jack valued his family above all else. A devoted husband for over 70 years, Jack loved his wife, Cecilia; and their children, Paul (Frances), Ann, John (Donna), Peter (Lisa), Jackie (David), and Christine (Paul); their grandchildren, and their great-grandchildren. Jack was a warm, upbeat and friendly man who enjoyed life and met all challenges with hard work and unbridled optimism. No challenge was too great for Jack. The youngest of ten children, Jack began playing musical instruments in his childhood. He combined his remarkable intelligence and extraordinary musical talent with his exceptional work ethic and went on to have a legendary career in music, which spanned over 70 years. He was well-known and highly respected for his mastery of multiple instruments which he performed professionally in live music venues as well as recording studios. Jack's music lives on through countless recordings that make up the fabric of Canadian music. In addition to his impressive and extensive discography, Jack's legacy includes his work on the Executive of both the Toronto Musicians' Association Local of the American Federation of Musicians and the Recording Musicians Association. His contributions have benefited countless recording studio musicians in Canada, and he will be remembered as a wise mentor and teacher. Jack's family is grateful for the exceptional care he received from nurses and doctors at St. Joseph's Health Centre in Toronto; and by his family doctor, Dr. Laura Thomas, who went above and beyond in caring for Jack and Cecilia with a medical expertise that was matched by profound kindness and compassion. If so desired, in lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the St. Joseph Health Foundation (supportstjoes.ca).