Joseph E Zalansky

Joseph E. Zalansky, 82, a longtime Shrewsbury resident, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 25th 2013 at home with the family he loved so much gathered beside him. Joseph, "Joe" was born in Worcester, a son of John and Jadviga (Kiela) Zalanskas. He attended Worcester Boys Trade, and volunteered to serve his country during World War II. A medical condition left him ineligible. Joe still wanted to serve, so he accepted a position as a welder for the Wyman Gordon Company, forging components for military aerospace applications which were critical in supporting the war effort. He remained at WG for 47 years before retiring in 1996. In 1956, Joe met and married the women who became his devoted wife and life's love for the next 57 years Joan J. Giordano. Together they began their life in Worcester before moving to Shrewsbury in 1973, where they raised their children and have lived ever since. Joe is survived by the family he devoted his life to and who cherished him: his wife Joan; four children, Susan M. Montville, and her husband Thomas of Charlton, Joseph E. Zalansky, Jr. of Worcester, Paula M. Tosti and her husband Stanley of Stow, MA. and Robert J. Zalansky of Worcester; a sister, Ruth Wheeler of Shrewsbury; six wonderful grandchildren who he adored; Sean, Rachael, Kayla, Joshua, Sarah and Noah; Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Two brothers, John and Stephen Zalansky and two sisters, Emily Knapik and Aldona Tomkus all pre deceased him. Joe was a member of St Anne's Church, the Adelphi Council, Knights of Columbus and it's Tuesday Night Cribbage League, and United Steelworkers Union. Joe enjoyed bowling, gardening, and was an avid reader. He especially loved cribbage, playing cards and cooking. He always sought out opportunities to spend with his family and friends and he enjoyed traveling. In life, Joe's family was his passion. Nothing made him more satisfied than spending as much time as possible with them, seeing them content, and supporting their efforts to be successful. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Wednesday, August 28th from 4pm to 8 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Worcester. His funeral will be held Thursday, August 29th from the funeral home with a procession at 9:30am to St. Anne's Church, 130 Boston Turnpike Rd where his celebration of life's mass will be held at 10:00 am. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery. Donations can be made in Joe's honor to the American Lung Association of New England, 460 Totten Pond Rd #400, Waltham, MA ‎ His wife and children wish to express sincere appreciation to the staff of 24 North at Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester. As well as, to Sister Pat and her staff of the Jewish Visiting Nurses Association.