Thaddeus Joseph Zysk

On January 24, 2014, Thaddeus "Teddy" Joseph Zysk, aged 76, of Calhoun, GA unexpectedly left us. An avid Polka dancer, bowler, golfer, pool player, card player, handyman and self-described contrarian, he approached each day with an open heart, a smile, hearty hello and a zest for life. He sought to serve, enjoy and entertain others. Teddy was born on December 28, 1937 in New Britain, CT. He met Frances at a polka dance at Lake Compounce in Bristol, CT. They were married in 1958. After serving his country as a member of the US Army from 1958 to 1961, he returned to CT resuming his manufacturing career with Fafnir Bearing Company. In 1965, Teddy settled with his young family in Bristol, CT. Torrington/Fafnir brought him and his family to Arkadelphia, AR in the early 80's and finally Calhoun, GA where he retired from Manufacturing Management after 44 years of service. Teddy has called Calhoun, GA home for the last 27 years. In Calhoun, Teddy was a member of St. Clements Church, The Knights of Columbus, and the self- appointed treadmill safety agent at Calhoun's Senior Center. His day was not complete unless he teased, aggravated or otherwise made someone smile. Those that know Teddy have many happy memories and funny stories of their encounters. His jabs and jibes will be missed by so many. We anticipate the local coffee vendors, pancake house and fast food restaurants will have a noticeable dip in revenues. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Frances Mary Zysk, their five children: Terry Zysk and husband, Daniel Teveris of Hollis, NH, John Zysk of Newnan, GA, Lisa Zysk and husband Steve Silvers of Ball Ground, GA, Traci Zysk Kistler and husband, Peter of Thornton, CO, Jennifer Zysk Woods and husband Jason of Dallas, GA, and their 7 grandchildren: Justin Zysk, Allison Zysk, Nicholas Kistler, Tyler Silvers, Valerie Kistler, Olivia Silvers and Bennett Woods. A Requiem Mass in honor of Teddy will be held at St Clements Church, 875 Highway 53 West, Calhoun, GA on February 26, 2014 at 3PM immediately followed by a celebration of Teddy's life in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to either Gordon County Senior Citizens Center, 150 Cambridge Court, Calhoun, GA 30701 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or 800-805-5856.