James J. Zelinko Sr., 67, of Coal City, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday December 9, 2015 at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet.

James was born on May 2, 1948 in Joliet, IL. to Edward Sr. and Laurine (Coates) Zelinko. He honorably served his country with the 9th Division 47 Infantry during Vietnam with the United States Army. He married Linda Unger on September 18, 1971 at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Coal City. He worked for and retired from the Laborer's Union Local #75. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Linda; three children Jamie Hughes of Coal City, Jill Zelinko and Jimmy Joe (Jasmin) Zelinko of Morris; grandchildren Darcie, Clayton, Sydney, Chloe and Bobby; brothers Eddie Zelinko and John (Kathy) Zelinko both of Coal City; brothers and sister in laws Eddie (Jackie) Unger, Mike (Kelli) Unger and Jerry (Janice) Unger all of Coal City; numerous nieces and nephews and special nephew Timothy Zelinko.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services for James will be held on Monday December 14, 2015 at 10:00 am at the Ferrari Funeral Chapel (the corner of Spring Road and Ferrari Drive). Father Robert Noesen will officiate with interment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood. Visitation will be on Sunday December 13, 2015 from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at Ferrari Funeral Services.

Online guest book available at www.ferrarifuneral.com


Pall bearers will be Eddie Zelinko, Timothy Zelinko, Eddie Unger, Jerry Unger, Billy Murphy and Robert Ferrari. Honorary pallbearers are his grandsons Clayton and Bobby.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.