John S. Zielinski

John S. Zielinski
On December 19, 2020 Jack Zielinski of Marley, IL left this Earth to go fishing with the Lord. Jack was known to family and friends for his sly wit, his prankster streak and the sense of calm he radiated to everyone in his sphere. To know Jack was to like him, even on the occasions when you were on the receiving end of his wit or pranks. He did not have a mean bone in his body and was the least judgmental of men.

Born in the West Pullman neighborhood of Chicago on October 13, 1955, Jack attended Assumption BVM grade school and Marist High School. He was the son of the late Jake and Julie Zielinski. Before settling into a long and successful career as an Air Traffic Controller, union official and teacher, he set out on many youthful adventures including hitchhiking across America from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Along his way he acquired many friends, experiences, great stories, and caught more than a few fish.

Most importantly on his return from his coast-to-coast adventure, he met Linda Mellin of Tinley Park. She became and remained his beloved wife for the last 42 years. Together they raised their daughters Christina and Chloe to be the strong, thoughtful and independent women that they have become. Jack’s proudest title was when he was promoted to “Papa” to his grandson, Declan John Harrington.

In addition to Linda, Christina, Chloe, and Declan, Jack is survived by his sisters Maryellen Pictor (Tom) of Arlington Heights and Lori Flynn (Tom) of Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania as well his brother Bob Zielinski (Maggie Schmid) of Winnetka. In addition, he was a loving brother in-law to Mary and Kevin Clay of Mokena; Mike Mellin of North Aurora; Jimmy and Ilona Mellin of St Charles, Cindy Mellin of Mokena, Cherie Cordero of Chicago, and Rick and Sharon Mellin of Vacaville, CA. Jack was the favorite uncle of far too many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews to mention by name. He was very much loved by all and will be sorely missed.

The family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, New Lenox, IL on Monday, December 28, 2020 from 3pm-8pm. Funeral Services Tuesday, December 29, 2020 with prayers at the funeral home at 11:30am to St. Jude Catholic Church New Lenox, IL for Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00pm. Interment Good Shepard Cemetery Orland Park, IL.

Wearing masks and social distancing is required of ALL in attendance. No food allowed in the funeral home.