John Jerome Zanca

John Jerome Zanca, 62, of Surprise, Arizona, passed away unexpectedly in a tragic car accident on Monday, March 24, 2025.

John spent most of his life in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. He was raised in Des Plaines, IL, and attended Forest View High School (Class of 1980) in Arlington Heights. He later resided in Mount Prospect, IL, where he served as an active volunteer youth football and baseball coach. In recognition of his dedication to the community, Township High School District 214 honored him as "Parent Volunteer of the Year" for his leadership in spearheading the construction of a baseball stadium at Prospect High School.

John built a successful career as a professional heavy equipment operator. He worked in the construction industry for over 35 years and was a proud member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150, based in Countryside, Illinois.

In 2017, John married his wife, Dawn, and in 2021, they moved from Chicagoland to Surprise, Arizona, where he purchased his dream home. He quickly grew to love Arizona, especially the warm, dry climate. A perfect day for John was spent tinkering with home projects or relaxing by his backyard pool. John adored his dogs, Mac and Mozzie, as well as his cats, Cole and Comet. He was known for his goofy, quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and love of cooking. He cherished his many friendships and the time spent with those he loved, especially his grandchildren. He had a huge heart. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit, kindness, and laughter will live on in the hearts of the many who loved him.

John is survived by his loving wife, Dawn Zanca; his sons, Johnny Zanca (Lauren) and granddaughter Abigail and Beau Zanca (fiancée Amy Mastrolonardo); stepdaughter Brittany Pence (Michael) and grandchildren Grayson Pence and a baby girl due in May; stepsons Matthew Wrzek and Bryan Wrzek (Jocelyn Garcia); his mother, Judy Zanca; his brother, Bruce Zanca (Michele); and his sister, Bonnie Payne, his Aunt Bonnie Platten, . Brother-in-law David Carney. Son-in-law of Ray Thau, Donna Delisi, and Linda Thau. Brother-in-law of Robert Thau, AJ Thau (Emily), and many nieces and nephews. He was previously married to Linda Scott.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jerome Zanca; his sister, Lauren Zanca Carney; and his brother-in-law, Bill Payne.

Memorial Services

The family will hold two memorial services. Friends and loved ones are welcome to attend either or both. The Chicagoland memorial service/lunch will be held on Saturday, April 5, at 11:30 AM until 2:30 PM at Prospect Moose Lodge, 601 N. Main Street, Mt. Prospect, IL 60056. The Arizona service will be held on Monday, April 28, at 10:30 AM at Saint Clare of Assisi Catholic Church in Surprise, AZ.