Joseph H. Zielinski, 76, of Wood-Ridge, formerly of Jersey City, passed away peacefully in his home, with his loving wife Roseann by his side.

Joe grew up in Jersey City and graduated from Snyder High School, and Rutgers University. He proudly served his Country in US Army during The Vietnam Era. Before retiring, he was a financial controller for China Shipping Company in Montvale. He then became a crossing guard for the Borough of Wood-Ridge, where the children knew him as Mr. "Z".

Joseph was involved in his community, serving as a past president of the Wood-Ridge Little League, treasurer of the Wood-Ridge recreational football, and a longtime coach. This was one of his greatest joys, coaching and mentoring children.

Joseph is survived  by  his loving wife of 41 years, Roseann (nee Guidice), his son Jeffrey and  his wife Amanda, his daughter Brittany Franchini and her husband AJ, his beloved grandchildren; Brynn, Avery, Madison, and Joey, as well as his siblings; Michael Zielinski and his wife Michele, William Zielinski, James Zielinski, JoAnn Dolph, Kathleen Monaghan and her husband Paul, as well as many nieces and nephews. Joe was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Blanche Zielinski.

The one thing that Joe enjoyed and that brought him the greatest joy, was being surrounded by his four grandchildren every day. He will be greatly missed.

Funeral Service at Costa Memorial Home Boulevard and Central Ave. Hasbrouck Heights on Monday evening, December 19th at 7 PM. Private cremation will follow. Visitation Monday from 4-8 PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Joseph's name to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Pl. Memphis, TN 38105  www.stjude.org.