Francis J. Zanine

Francis Joseph Zanine 95, of South Salem, NY passed away peacefully in his home of 54 years surrounded by his loved ones on Monday afternoon, August 23, 2021.

Francis, affectionately known as "Fritz", was born in the Bronx, NY. on August 15,1926.

He was the second son to John & Elizabeth Zanine and a brother to his four siblings John, Wilma, Mary & Elizabeth. As a child, Fritz was extremely observant, thorough and hardworking. After earning his high-school diploma, he enlisted into the U.S. Navy.

When he returned to civilian life he worked for the New York Sanitation department and was recognized for his leadership and ability to problem solve. It was soon after he was asked to create a map of all of New York City's sanitation routes. Not an easy task, back in 1940. The only tools available then. were paper, pencils and his ability to draw. He took the challenge, finished the job and was promoted to Foreman.

At the age of 27, he met and married the love of his life, Ellen Wiest, who passed away in September 2011.

In the late sixties he became a Linesman for the New York Telephone Company.

He also moved his family from the Bronx to South Salem, NY providing a new life and made many happy memories.

It was a common sight to see Fritz driving around the property on his yellow tractor, whether mowing the lawn listening to the Yankee game or plowing his driveway from an earlier snowfall.

He immersed himself into politics and often enjoyed a good debate. He was a dedicated member of St Mary’s church in Ridgefield, CT regularly attending Saturday evening services.

He will be remembered as being a fair, hardworking, loving husband and father.

Fritz is survived by his 4 children: James and wife Elizabeth Zanine; Christopher and former wife Allison Zanine; Patricia and her husband Joseph Vittoria, 

Elizabeth Zanine and her fiancé Richard. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren: Jack, Mary, Jesse, Jillian Marceau and Grace Vittoria. 

Friends will be received on Wednesday, September 8, 2021 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Kane Funeral Home; 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. A prayer service will be offered at the funeral home at the conclusion of calling hours. Interment with US Military Honors will follow in South Salem Cemetery; Spring Street, South Salem.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Paralyzed Veterans of America, http://www.pva.org or The Wounded Warrior Project, https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

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