In loving memory of

Ronald A. Zaleski
June 1, 1962 - February 15, 2017

WAUNAKEE - Ronald Alexander Zaleski "Z",54, of Waunakee, Wis. passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Wednesday, February 15, 2017, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, Wis.

Ron was born on June 1, 1962 in Danville, Pennsylvania to Ronald John Zaleski and the late Anna Rita Giacomini. Ron married the love of his life and high school sweetheart Lisa on April 29,1989 at the United States Naval Academy Chapel. He is survived by his wife, Lisa; Son, Ronald; Daughters, Olivia and Madalyne; Father, Ronald John of Atlas, PA; Sister, LouAnn Shively of Mifflinburg, PA.; many nieces and nephews and the most recent addition of a great niece, Norah.

Ron spent his early years in Mt Carmel and graduated from Mt Carmel Area High School. At Mt Carmel Ron lettered four years in both Football and Basketball and was all-league in both. Ron accepted an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. While at the academy Ron lettered in varsity football and was a starter his senior year. Ron was on the team that defeated the 2nd ranked team in the country, South Carolina at home. An achievement that still stands today as the highest ranked football team the United States Naval Academy has defeated at their home stadium. Ron was a popular Midshipman, both on and off the field. Ron was commissioned an officer in the United States Marine Corps and served proudly for seven years, Ron separated from the United States Marine Corps with the rank of Captain.
After the Marine Corps, Ron began working in the food manufacturing sector as a plant manager and eventually ended up as a Vice-President.

Ron's hobbies include: spending time with his children, fishing, hunting, watching sports, and walking his dog Arabella. He attended weekly masses at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Waunakee.

Family and friends are invited to visit at Winn-Cress Funeral Home, 5785 Hwy Q, Waunakee, on Sunday February 19, 2017 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. A Prayer Service will take place at 3 p.m. The service will be held by Reverend Monsignor James Gunn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Johns' endowment fund.

A special thanks for the wonderful care he received over the years from Dr William Lydiatt, MD and his team at the University of Nebraska; Dr William Vokes and his team at the University of Chicago; Dr Andrew Baschnagel at UW Medical Center; Dr Lisa LePeak and staff at Dean; and most recently, the fabulous MICU staff, and Dr Eric Marty, palliative care director at St Mary's Hospital in Madison, WI. Also, the caring pharmacy staff of Walgreens in Waunakee, WI.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on April 29th, 2017 at Divine Redeemer Catholic Church in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania. In lieu of flowers, donations to honor Ron's memory may be made to the Mother Maria Kaupas Center, c/o Father Martin Moran, Pastor, 438 W. Avenue, Mt. Carmel, PA 17851

Winn-Cress Funeral Home
5785 Hwy Q
Waunakee, WI 53597
608-849-4513

Tributes

john zaleski wrote on Feb 1, 2018:

"Deeply Sorry. You're back in Mom's arms. Cousins, John and Susan Zaleski, Clark, N.J."

Robert Loria wrote on May 9, 2017:

"I was saddened to learn of Ron's passing. Ron and I knew each other somewhat at The Academy. Fortunately, we got to know each other better as Marine Officers. We both served in Marine Corps Security Force Battalion, Pacific. Ron was a hard-working and professional Marine. Plus, he was a super nice guy and a good man. Bob Loria, USNA '85."

Rich Venable wrote on Mar 23, 2017:

"Dear Z Family, Ron and I spent some time together on restriction at USNA with Rich Jordan. He was a great classmate, friend, football player, and naval officer. I wish you all comfort and want you to know he brought loving memories to so many people. Never forgotten. Rich Venable USNA '85"

Charlie Schott wrote on Mar 23, 2017:

"A grateful nation thanks you for your and Ron's service. You have my deepest condolences, and well-wishes for sharing of Ron's warm memories- I remember Ron. Charlie Schott USNA'85"

Rhonda Menke wrote on Mar 23, 2017:

"My late husband Kurt was also class if 1985. My prayers are with you. Please feel free to contact me if you need to talk. Love and prayers, Rhonda Menke "

Laura English-Peacock wrote on Feb 20, 2017:

"God will link the broken chain, as one by one we meet again. In our hearts he will always stay, loved and remembered every day. Our deepest sympathy. Laura (English) and Rick Peacock"

John Dimiinick wrote on Feb 20, 2017:

"So sorry to hear about Z's passing. May he rest in peace. Lisa, so sorry for your loss. May God bless you and your family during this difficult time. You guys are in my prayers. Z was a great teammate from our days playing baseball with the Moose and basketball and football for the Big Red. "

Linda (Tish) Malinowski Severino wrote on Feb 19, 2017:

"May this light shine on all of you knowing Ron is with Our Lord in Heaven. His is your Angel now. ?"

Linda (Tish) Malinowski Severino wrote on Feb 19, 2017:

"I am so sorry for the loss of Ron, a Husband, Father, Son, Brother and Uncle. I had the pleasure of going to MCAHS Class of 1981 with him, he was great at everything he did! He will be missed. My Deepest Sympathy to you Lisa and all your family. Linda Tish Malinowski Severino ??'?"

Bob and Veronica Barrett wrote on Feb 19, 2017:

"We are so sorry. Deepest sympathy to Lisa and family. May all your happy memories of Ron carry you through this difficult time. Love to all, Uncle Bob & Aunt Roni"

Jeff Daniel wrote on Feb 18, 2017:

"Blessing to all Z's friends and family!"

eric rutherford wrote on Feb 18, 2017:

"Z, i really miss you and I am so sad. Take care my friend."