William J. Zelinski

William John Zelinski, age 85, of Antigo died at his home on Friday, October 11, 2013. Mr. Zelinski was under the care of his family and LeRoyer Hospice. He was born on May 30, 1928 to the late John and Lima (Culver) Zelinski in Pearson. On June 20, 1953 he was united in marriage to Mary Ann Fick at St. Wencel's Catholic Church in Neva. He was raised in Pearson and graduated from Antigo High School. He served in the Army Air Force in Europe and was later stationed in California during the Korean War. He was a member of VFW Post #2653. Mr. Zelinski worked as the parts manager at Lockwood Graders and also worked as a salesman for Gallenberg Equipment. He was a member of Ss. Mary & Hyacinth Catholic Church. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and golfing. Mr. Zelinski also built the family cottage on Black Oak Lake and a log cabin on the family hunting land, where he was able to pursue his love for outdoor activities. He also loved is dog Nellie. He coached youth baseball in the little league and senior league. He served the community on the Antigo City Council, Langlade County Board, and Board of Trustees at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church. He was a member of the National Rifle Association. . Survivors, in addition to his wife, include 2 daughters, Gail (Greg) Celmer of North Liberty, IN, and Carol (James) Stephenson of Omaha, NE; 4 sons, William Jr. (Dianne) of Plover, Alan (Kathy) of Deerbrook, Michael (Susan) of Deerbrook, and Andrew (Krista) of Merrill; a sister, Beverly Bera of Bull Valley, IL; a brother, Mathew Zelinski of Panama City, Florida; 11 grandchildren, Bryan Celmer, Karen Celmer, Amy (Zach) Mykisen, Stacy Zelinski, Luke Zelinski, Megan Stephenson, Daniel Stephenson, Jennifer Zelinski, Briar Servi, Katelyn Zelinski, and Jacob Zelinski; many nieces and nephews and a very close nephew, Mark Fick. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Frances Zelinski, a brother, John Zelinski, 2 sisters-in-law, Marion Zelinski, and Joye Zelinski; and a brother-in-law, Leo Bera. A memorial mass will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 14, at Ss. Mary & Hyacinth Catholic Church, with Fr. Jeremiah Worman officiating. Visitation will be 9:00-11:00 a.m. Monday at the church. Burial will be at Queen of Peace Cemetery at a later date.