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Steven Zolkosky Obituary
Was born November 6, 1957 in Elmira, NY the son of the late John and Harriet (Capwell) Zolkosky. He went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, December 7, 2013, at the age of 56. He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Brenda A. (Rakich) and his beloved canine companion, "Snoopy"; beloved children: SFC Jonathan C. Zolkosky, currently serving in the US Army, Anita (David) Kropf and their children, Rebekah and Stephen of Waverly, NY, Dorothy (Thomas) Little and their children, Olivia and Anneliese of Horseheads, NY; siblings: Jerry (Elizabeth) Zolkosky of Pine Valley, NY, Patricia Zolkosky of Elmira, NY, Bryan Zolkosky (Lisa Fanelli) of West Elmira, NY, Michelle (Zak) Ahmad of Temecula, CA, Harry (Melissa) Ellison of Arlington, VA; along with several other relatives, nieces, nephews, friends, and his church family. Steve was an avid ham radio operator with the following call letters: "N2BN". For the past 31 years he has worked for the Pepsi Bottling Company as their fleet manager. He was a faithful member of the Elmira Christian Center serving on the church board as Deacon, was a teen teacher in the Sunday School Department affecting many lives for Christ. Family and friends are invited to gather at Elmira Christian Center, 235 East Miller Street, Elmira, NY on Wednesday, December 11, 2013, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. A celebration of Steve's life will follow the visitation at 6 p.m. Reverend David Cook will officiate. Interment will take place privately in the Maple Grove Cemetery Horseheads, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Elmira Christian Center. His guestbook may be signed in obituaries at www.olthof.com.
"I know God always has a plan in all of our lives, but he may not share it all with us. That's why he wants us to be faithful to the end!" Steve Zolkosky
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Memories and Condolences
for Steven Zolkosky
Bob Raniewicz
January 7, 2014
I've known Steve for over 30 years! I believe we first met when he helped set up our Pepsi account back in the 1980's when my dad and I opened the Iron Bar Saloon on College Avenue. Steve bought radios from me, for Pepsi, while I worked at Chemung Communications. He would stop by several times a week to visit with Harry (KF2N) Jeff (N2KOD)and myself (N2DRN). I last saw Steve at the Elmira Hamfest (Sept. 13). It was a nice sunny day and we walked the flea market for over an hour talking about old times, as we had done over many past years! I didn't think for a moment that it would be for the last time! If it was not a hamfest then I would see him at Wegmans. Very sorry to hear of his passing, he was a great guy and I will miss him! 73's - Bob Raniewicz - N2DRN
holly somers
December 15, 2013
I am very sorry for your loss,but hope of a better home in Heaven and reunification there someday.For now,My condolences as you grieve this loss.
Anita Kropf
December 15, 2013
This morning I was remembering a time when we were upset with Dad for going over to his church during a snowstorm to clean all the walks, because no one else would do it. That was Dad. He had initiative. He could see something that needed to be done and would do it. Many times, the things he needed to do for himself were put last. He put taking care of himself last. He was a hard worker, something I admire, especially as I look around and see people who know nothing about hard work. Dad would be the one working from his hospital bed. Long hours at work, then long hours at church, and then whenever there was a little energy left, he would work on things around the house. It didn't matter that he was rubbing his chest in the process. When you asked if he were alright, he would always say, “I'm fine.”
I don't remember Dad doing a lot with us when we were kids, but I knew he was always working hard to provide for us. There were those camping trips that we enjoyed – and car rides where we drove him nuts. =) As we grew older, I remember him on the sidelines during soccer games or basketball games, cheering us on in his silent way. I know my parents sacrificed to send us to a private school, but they never complained.
I remember him bringing my brother home for my wedding day and surprising me. I still remember telling him he would be a Grandpa for the first time. Then I remember the joy and his remark when we told him that his grandson would bear his name.
Even this last year, Dad was doing as much as he could to spend time with his grandbabies. He took them camping and then on a special trip to Knoebels. He endured the torment of a photo session – our last picture of him on this earth. I know deep down, as we were preparing his funeral, that he knew his time was coming to an end on this earth. Be With Me Jesus by Al Green was a song in his playlist…be prepared to cry if you listen to it.
Dad, I'm heartbroken that you're gone. I only find comfort in knowing that you suffer no more pain. I know you're worshipping Jesus and have joined those who've gone on before to cheer the saints. However, I miss you. Every day I will think of all that you have done for me and my family – for others. Your example taught me that being selfless is far better than being selfish. I can only pray that I will bring honor to you, even as you wait in heaven for us to join you.
Brenda A. Zolkosky
December 14, 2013
What can I say or tell you about Steven? He was a person who not only loved you but he like to tease you and get you going. He wanted to see how far he could go, then if he seen you were not the joking kind he'd back off. He was devoted to his faith, wife, children, GRANDCHILDREN, Church and his job. If he seen that something needed to be done he did it. He didn't know how to say sorry can't do it. Let me tell you a story. One evening as Steven and I were eating at Friendly a family of 4 came in, a mother her two children and one of her children's friends. They sat down behind Steven at a booth. One of the lady's children was already upset and carrying on so. It didn't get any better when the waitress told this child that they were out of the item they ordered. The child started yelling out loud at this young girl, threw a spoon that almost hit Steve, who jumped to his feet said hey watch it and sat down. The child stormed out of the restaurant, the people there were not too happy about the out burst and let the mother know, she left with the other children. As we were driving down the road I said Steven there's that child, at once the Lord spoke to me go back and talk to him. So I told Steven we need to go back, the Lord said so, with out a second thought Steve turned the Van around and pulled behind the child on the Miracle Mile and started walking and talking to this young person in the rain. They walked over a mile. We almost had talk the child into coming with us and we would take him to his father, but at that moment the mother pulled up told us to leave him alone that she had, had it with this child and that the police were coming to take him away. Steve tried to talk to the mother but she only cared about her own happiness not what was going on in her child's life. We could do nothing, except pray for this child, the story he told Steven I won't repeat, it was not good. Steven's heart went out to this young person, I think that's why he loved young people in our Church so much, cause you never know what there going threw. The night I took Steven to the hospital I never would of dreamed that it would be the last time. When the doctors came in to the ICU waiting room to talk to us there was something he said that gave me a strong pain in my stomach, I know my Husband of 37 years was not coming home, I wanted to die that day with him. The pain in my chest was so over welming. To this day I feel so alone even though my Children and Grandchildren are here with me every day, my heart is broken. Steven was not just my husband, he was my friend. He loved to pick on his wife and get me going. On Wednesday the day before I took him to the hospital he sent me flowers. I called him at work to thank him for the flowers, he said they weren't from him. That's the kind of person he was always kidding. Steven longed to be with his Lord and Savior and he finally got his wish. Jesus Christ is my comforter and he is my strength and my best friend here on earth, till I meet Him and Steven again in Heaven. Steven is with all the Saints from our Church that went on before him. I will always love him and I miss him so much. Steve's loving wife and friend.
Ted Topper
December 13, 2013
Anita, David, Rebekah, Stephen, Mrs. Brenda Zolkosky and the entire Zolkosky family - May our heavenly Father, the God of all comfort, minister to you as only he can at this time. You are in my prayers.
Sharon Bennett
December 12, 2013
Brenda, was so heart-broken to learn of Steve's passing. Was just getting to know your family. His friendliness and smile were so welcoming. God's PEACE be with your family. Words can not express our sympathy for his unexpected home journey.
Stephen Waters
December 12, 2013
Zolkosky Family
Suzanne and I send our condolences to the entire family. Steve was a great man of faith and will be missed by all. His life on this earth was way to short but his example of Christian love and faith will endure for many generations.
Dennis Greeno
December 12, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out for those left behind. Although we know that "blessed are the death of His saints;" somehow it doesn't seem to be of comfort. But I know that in time, we will understand God's purpose.
Roberta Bedzyk
December 11, 2013
Will surely be missed at Elmira Christian Center!! Just wondering who can fill his shoes with his faithfulness and his caring and loving spirit?
Kelly Sheets and Family
December 11, 2013
Brenda and family,
I am so sorry for your loss!!
With deepest Sympathy
Ed Bennett
December 11, 2013
Although we have lost a kind wonderful companion in this life, the angels are rejoycing for Steve's has come home. See you on the other side my friend.
Tim Smith
December 11, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. Steve touched many lives the way he lived and with his words and actions. He was a great man and I will miss him.
Carmen Fernandez
December 11, 2013
I was deeply saddened to learn of Steve's death and I would like to express to you my sincere sadness and sympathies to you and your family at this difficult time.
Steve was a very nice person to work with...He will be missed!
Dorothy Little
December 11, 2013
Dad, Words can't even begin to describe the immense pain I am feeling right now. I love you so much and wish I just had one more day to tell you and show you. You have been the Best Father to me, the Best Papa to my girls, and not only a Great Father-in-law to Thomas, but a Great Friend. Through all my faults and all the hurt that I have caused you, you still loved me and supported me. My heart aches knowing you won't get to see your granddaughters grow up...how much they love and will miss their PaPa. Who is going to fill that void in my heart? Who will drop by just to hang out or to sneak a piece of candy from the girls? Who will pick on me for being un-showered and still in my pjs at 5pm? Who will send me random goofy pictures and videos? Who will I tease mom with and who will Tom tease me with? Who will we have dinner and a movie with? Who will get the next sparrow out of my furnace pipe? Who will complain about my Chicken Divan and tease me about those cream carrots? Who will listen as I leave a long annoying answering machine message and finally pick up at the end? Who will say "Eh, it's ok"? There are so many things that I just can't fathom not hearing you say or do anymore. And as much as I am hurting, my one comfort is knowing you are no longer in pain. Your chest and leg scar have disappeared, your organs are no longer failing you, your leg is no longer swollen, you are no longer in the pain that I witnessed every time we were together. You are finally whole again and at peace. I love you so much Dad, forever and always. Your little "brat" and loving daughter. Dorothy
Dean Conley
December 11, 2013
Steve,
I will miss our conversations of of everyday events of family ,work and hobbies over the past 30 years. You had a passion for life and spreading positive joy with that big smile everyday. My heart goes out to the family for such a unexpected loss.
RIP my friend
Robert Bishop
December 11, 2013
R I P
Robert Bishop
December 11, 2013
Steve thanks for the the time at pepsi u were a good boss god bless u and ur family
December 10, 2013
So Sorry for your loss Bryan.May god bless you and your family at this difficult time. Jeff Davis
Katie Legarreta
December 10, 2013
It was such a pleasure working with and getting to know Steve Z. I will remember him most for his upbeat attitude and positive outlook on life. I will miss our lunches and chats in Elmira. My thoughts and prayers are with Brenda and family during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
Chow Downey
December 10, 2013
So very sorry to hear that Steve passed away. He was always such a friendly person. My condolences to your family. He will certainly be missed. May he rest in peace.
Melissa McCormack
December 10, 2013
Steve was always a pleasure to work with and an extremely dedicated person. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.
donald greis jr
December 10, 2013
we are all going to miss steve. he was a good guy ,always a pleasure to talk to.god bless
December 10, 2013
Brenda, my thoughts and prayers and heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. So very sorry for your loss.
Ginny S.
Lauren Little
December 10, 2013
We are so sorry to hear about Steve's passing. Please find comfort in knowing he will always be watching over your family. Love always, The Little Family (Jesse, Lauren, Layla, Ricky, Robert, John and Liz Locker)
Rev. & Mrs. Donald Paul Jr.
December 10, 2013
I had the pleasure of knowing Steve through Elmira Christian Center and whenever I had a chance to visit he was always there to greet me and welcome me in if I got past him at door and he seen me there he always made his way to me to give me a welcome Our Prayers and thoughts are with his family.
Ed White
December 10, 2013
Steve was a very special person that will be missed. I will always remember the talks we had about cars and fishing. Steve was one of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.
Tina Almy
December 10, 2013
Brenda,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May your cherished memories bring you comfort during this difficult time. Deepest sympathy.
Meade Murtland (KA3EQU)
December 9, 2013
I knew Steve for nearly 30 30 years. As a fellow Ham Radio operator he was always willing to help. Truly a very nice guy. The world is a better place because of Steve and I will miss him... 73's My friend.
SCOTT SHERIDAN
December 9, 2013
"STEVE O" LOST A FREIND IN FEBRUARY AND NEVER HAD THE CHANCE TO SAY THANK YOU . THANK YOU STEVE , YOU WILL BE MISSED , GOD BLESS .
Vicky Karski
December 9, 2013
God has another angel, you will be missed. My condolences to the family for your loss. Rest in Peace!
mark collmer
December 9, 2013
Stave has been a part of my life since I started with Pepsi on lake road he was always in an upbeat mood and could make my mood change for the better my prayers go to his family god speed Steve
Bob Flaherty
December 9, 2013
"Uncle Steve". He will be missed by so many. He was a always positive person to be around when he made the journey to PBC Rochester. He was always there for us if we needed anything. It always meant a lot to spend time with him! What a great guy. Heaven has gained an angel. Steve will be sorely missed!
Nelson Martinez
December 9, 2013
My deepest condolences. A wonderful man is gone but never forgetton
MaryAnn Amico
December 9, 2013
Anita,David,Rebekah & Stephen, Mrs. Brenda Zolkosky & the rest of the Zolkosky Family.
Just want you to know I understand your sorrow
May God grant you peace, and comfort in your loss.
Praying for you.
Love, MaryAnn
Kay Roof
December 9, 2013
Mr. Zolkosky will be extremely missed. The Roof family sends condolences, we know he is with our Lord and Savior. Stevens' family will be in our prayers and thoughts. Kay
David Stoughton
December 9, 2013
Brenda and family, I know how difficult this as almost 12 years ago I was in the same place and regardless of how sad and unfair it seems you will all get through we all hurt when we lose someone we love but God gets us through and your real friends will be there to help Steve was a great guy and will be missed by all that knew him I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. One thing for sure at least you will only be away from him for a time and someday will all be reunited once again in a place with no tears or hear ache.
Bill Van Riper
December 9, 2013
Brenda, And Family sorry to hear of Steve Z's passing we both worked the Elmira area at Pepsi for 20 + years in the service dept. he will be missed by all who new him God Bless Bill Van Riper
harold woodard
December 9, 2013
Steve was a great guy.I worked with steve at the horseheads plant for nine years. He will surely be missed by all who knew him. My prayers are with his family. May he rest in peace.
Rev. Tim Maynard
December 9, 2013
We are all praying for the Zolkosky family. May God be close and may His grace uphold you.
Connie
December 9, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Steve's passing.Always had a smile on his face, he will be missed at Picnic Pizza
Suzanne Ying
December 9, 2013
Anita, David, Rebekah & Stephen, Mrs. Brenda Zolkosky & the rest of the Zolkosky Family - may the Lord's loving arms surround, comfort and strengthen you deep within in this time. Praying for you all. Love, Suzanne
Suzette Erb
December 9, 2013
Anita, David, Rebekah & Stephen, Mrs. Brenda Zolkosky & the rest of the Zolkosky Family,
You are very much in my prayers and on my heart at this time of loss and grief. I pray the Lord Jesus would minister His comfort and peace to you all. Suzette Erb
Joan & Bob Holter
December 9, 2013
our prayers are with the family and praise the Lord God for His care of all near and far..
Mike Baire
December 9, 2013
Brenda
I am so sorry to hear of Steve's passing. Steve was a great person and a good friend. Just thinking of him will always bring a smile to my face. You will all be in our thoughts and prayers.....
Larissa Singleton
December 9, 2013
My prayers are with Brenda and family Steve will be deeply missed by his smile and kind words on Sunday mornings. I'll be praying for you
Mike Nelson
December 9, 2013
Sorry for your loss. Steve will be greatly missed. We will keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers.
Tony Fichera
December 9, 2013
For more than 20yrs I have been able to call Steve my friend & I will miss him more than words can describe. May God bless his entire family during this difficult time.
RIP Steve!
Hope Fenton
December 9, 2013
To the entire Zolkosky family, I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts.
linda godshall
December 9, 2013
Brenda, so sorry that you cannot see your love...my heart weeps for you. Will be praying for peace in your heart....just when you need it.
( acousin )
Kae Platz
December 9, 2013
Dear Brenda & family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Steve was a special man who impacted many people in so many positive ways. He would pick on me for how I doted on my dog, but I know he felt the same about Snoopy. He will be greatly missed by everyone. I will always remember his smile and lovely sense of humor. My prayers are with you and may God bless you all.
David VanBuskirk
December 9, 2013
Steve was my friend and my boss. I will miss the laughter that always arrived with him when he visited. All my thoughts and prayers to all of Steves family and freinds at this terrible loss.
Shelley Evans
December 9, 2013
Brenda~
I am so sorry to hear about your loss, I hope that you find comfort when looking back on your 37 years together. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Eunice Hagios
December 9, 2013
May your heart find peace in all the great memories you had shared.
William Gruendike
December 9, 2013
Steve gave me my start at Pepsi, he saw something in me and ran with it. I owe everything I have here to him and his wisdom. He will be missed greatly and I feel like I lost my father all over again. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers with all of my sympathies.
Brett Lycans
December 9, 2013
Steve was my coworker and friend. I will miss him greatly. Please know that I will keep You and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Tom Whitney
December 9, 2013
Grief can be so hard during the holidays, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one this holiday season.
December 9, 2013
It was with great sadness I learned of Steve's passing. I appreciated Steve as a peer, friend and a Christ Servant. My wife Cheryl and I will keep you, his family in our prayers. He made me laugh, a good man.
Chuck, Cheryl Van Riper
Jamestown Pepsi
Donna Hazlett
December 9, 2013
Brenda,
My deepest sympathy. May God give you comfort during this difficult time.
jim mason
December 9, 2013
May the peace of Christmas be with all the familym. Will remember all in my prayers in this trying time. May God bless your family.
kurt chrzanowski
December 9, 2013
You will always live in our hearts and prayers. syracuse fleet team
The Palmers
December 9, 2013
Steve was not only a co-worker but a dear friend. We will miss him. He is in a better place and at rest. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
December 9, 2013
Brenda and family,
We have truly been blessed to have Steve in our lives for the special years he was given. Please know you are loved we are here for you for any need we can help you with. You are in our prayers daily and your precious husband will Never be forgotten. Reggie and Jeanne Jividen
Deanna Harless
December 9, 2013
I'm praying for all of you. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Wendi Walton
December 9, 2013
Brenda and family, your beloved is sitting at a banquet prepared by the Lord. All who love him and has passed are seated with him. Take comfort in knowing that Steven is in the arms of the Lord, who has blessed you with 37 wonderful years together. Cherish your memories. with sympathy
Lori Beck
December 9, 2013
With great sympathy for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
December 9, 2013
Brenda and family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Thoughts and prayer go to you and your family. Sophie Parker Rhode
David Nye
December 9, 2013
My prayers are with you in this time of sorrow.
Lyn & Norm Theetge
December 9, 2013
Jerry,Bryan & Family
Please know how sorry we are for your loss. Your in our thoughts and prayers.
Lena Murch
December 9, 2013
My thoughts and prayers to Steve's family and friends. May God hold you in His arms and give you peace and joy as we know Jesus had his arms wide open waiting.
December 9, 2013
I am so sorry to hear in Steve's passing, we have been friends for many years at Pepsi and even prior when he worked with a distributor. He will be deeply missed by his Pepsi family in Binghamton and our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Kenny,Steve and Bruce
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