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John Zelinsky Obituary
John R. Zelinsky, Jr., 81, a longtime resident of Stamford, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2024. John was born on July 15, 1942 in Yonkers, New York. He was the son of the late John R. Zelinsky, Sr. and Lena Cundra Zelinsky.
John was an Independent Insurance Agent and Real Estate Broker for many years. He graduated from Stamford Catholic High School, class of 1960, before attending UCONN in the Insurance Program.
John was an active member of the Stamford community primarily by serving 44 consecutive years as a City Representative on the Board of Representatives from the 11th District. During his time on the Board of Representatives, John faithfully and vigorously represented the constituents of his District. In addition, he also served on the Democratic City Committee for many terms. John was also a member of the Certified Emergency Response Team of Stamford, Holy Name Athletic Club, Polish American Cultural Society, Senior Men's Club, Red Cross Youth Group, Salvation Army, and the Stamford Jaycees.
Another City agency that John was honored to serve on was the Human Rights Commission where he also served as Chairman. He was a proud member of the City of Stamford Auxiliary Police Department for many years. Also, he was a member of the Connecticut Army National Guard. Further, besides his involvement in local government and community organizations, John served as a Commissioner on the State Public Transportation Commission.
John was a passionate tennis player and could be often seen out on the tennis court throughout his lifetime.
John is survived by his loving son Richard J. Zelinsky of Stamford. Besides his parents John was predeceased by his beloved wife Joan McGrane Zelinsky.
Family and Friends may call at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, CT on Monday, February 5, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will Celebrated on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 325 Washington Blvd., Stamford, CT, at 10:30 a.m., a procession will follow to Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY, for the burial.
To leave an online condolence please visit www.Cognetta.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Zelinsky
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John Zaccagnino
February 5, 2024
Dear Richard,
I am so sorry to hear the sad news of the passing of your dad. I've known him for over 40 years and he has always been so helpful to our community. I always used to see him around election time. May he rest in peace.
My sincerest condolences,
John Zaccagnino
Sallie Kraus
February 5, 2024
I remember John as an enthusiastic public servant, with lots of energy and ideas. I remember that he greeted everyone outside the polling places on Election Day, rain or shine.
My condolences to his family.
Laurie Albano
February 3, 2024
I´m very sorry to hear of John´s passing. As a 25 year City employee I remember John as a sincere and caring City Rep. We spoke many times especially regarding his beloved city tennis courts. However he would often call me to discuss other parks and recreation issues. I always appreciated his fact checking and reasonableness. My sympathies to his family, friends, fellow Reps and community members who knew him. Rest in peace John. Hit em well up there!
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The Edward Barosky Family
February 2, 2024
Sincere sympathy to John's survivors. He will be remembered for his passionate devotion to his work in the community. May he rest in peace.
Joan Carty
February 2, 2024
so sorry for your loss, Richard. I will always remember how much your Dad cared about Stamford and its affordable housing needs. take good care, Joan
Ruth elliott
February 2, 2024
John was nice man he will be missed. He had a wealth of knowledge and a good sense of humor.
Megan Cottrell, Clerk of the Board
February 1, 2024
I remember John as a passionate advocate for his constituents. He helped advocate for a public speaking portion to the Board of Representatives meeting, and for a plastic bag ban, among many, many other issues. He was often the first to submit an agenda item that was a hot topic and/or pressing issue amongst Stamford residents. He was also often submitting honorary resolutions in order to recognize the accomplishments of others in the Stamford community. We had wanted to recognize his 44 years of service with an honorary resolution of our own, and were waiting to go back into chambers in order to do it. Unfortunately, repairing the room has taken longer than we thought, but we still plan to honor him. My thoughts go out to his son, his friends, and all other family members.
Anita, Darren, Keith & Ashley Martinez
February 1, 2024
My condolences Richard. Keeping you close in thoughts and prayers. Your dad was a wonderful friend and icon to the neighborhood.
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Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902
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