Francis Walter Zielenski, 93, passed away Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at the Wynn Hospital in Utica.

     Walter was born on December 29, 1929, the son of the late John and Maryanna (Kogut) Zielenski.  He was raised in Holland Patent and was a graduate of Whitesboro High School.  Walter furthered his education receiving a bachelor's degree from Utica College.  On August 21, 1954, Walter was united in marriage to the former Joan Dorothea Catillaz, a blessed union of 50 years.  Joan predeceased him on June 15, 2005.  Walter was an employee of Sears Roebuck and Company, New Hartford for nearly 30 years.  Walter enjoyed working on cars and projects around the house, spending time outdoors and he was a fan of science fiction and enjoyed reading in his spare time.  He was also an avid card player, with his favorite being Pitch.

     Mr. Zielenski is survived by his three daughters and their husbands, Cindy Lill and her husband William, Rochester, NY., Marybeth Rakowski and her husband Brian, of Utica, Nancy Paladino and her husband Michael, of  New Hartford; two sons and their wives,  Stephen Zielenski and his wife Dawn of Marcy, Brian Zielenski and his wife June, of Macedon, NY.; twelve cherished  grandchildren; Shana, Joshua, Katrina, Cassie, Kayla, Adam, Amanda, Megan, Michael, Billy, Bonnie, Chet, along with several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  Walter was predeceased by three brothers, Joseph, Michael and Stanley Zielenski, and two sisters Rose Glucky and Frances Keida. 

      Visitation for family and friends will be held Tuesday, December 19, 2023, from 5-7PM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Walter’s funeral service on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at 10:30AM, from Heintz Funeral Services, Inc., 1517 Whitesboro Street, Utica, NY. with Deacon Richard Prusko officiating.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Walter’s name can be made to the Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society, 5664 Horatio Street, Utica, NY 13502.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.