James J Zitnik

James Joseph Zitnik, "JJ," age 83, passed away peacefully at home on December 10, 2023. Jim was born in Chicago, IL, on May 5, 1940, son of James Zitnik and Rosemary Zitnik (Giel). He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Lee (nee Baruch) Zitnik, and his three sons, James (Faith) Zitnik, Mark (Solit) Zitnik, and Jeffrey (Catherine) Zitnik. Fond grandfather of Jimmy Zitnik, Braden Davis, and Soliht Zitnik. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Judith Guryn.

Jim was born and raised in Chicago's South West side graduating from Gage Park High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he proudly served for 4 years and learned his life's profession of Air Traffic Control. Upon leaving the Marine Corps, Jim would go on to work at Du Page Airport, Midway Airport, and O'Hare International Airport, the world's busiest airport at that time.

Upon leaving the Marine Corps, "JJ" also began raising a family. Jim married Mary Lee, had three boys, and raised a wonderful family, which always included pets, dogs specifically. Jim loved his family and loved his dogs. Some would say he possessed a special skill of "dog whispering." Jim could not be in the same room as a dog without the dog cuddling up to him for attention.

Jim's post-retirement years were spent quietly at his Arizona home with family and friends. Because Jim had such a connection with animals, he was a popular pet sitter for his neighbors while they were out of town. Jim was a wonderful husband, father, son, and friend. He will be missed by those who knew him.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on February 17th from 2-4 pm at the Ballroom East in the MountainView Clubhouse, 38759 S. Mountain View Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85739.

Instead of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association in Jim's name.