Richard “Rich” Zelina, 92, of Bobtown, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Sundale Nursing Center in Morgantown, West Virginia. He was born on January 1, 1932, in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Joseph Zelina and Margaret (Kosztur) Zelina.

In addition to his parents, Rich was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 55 years, Emily Zelina, who passed away on September 3, 2012; his brother, Joseph Zelina; his sister, Lillian Gallatin; and his son-in-law, Vince Zapotosky.

A man of deep faith and dedication, Rich was a devoted member of Saint Ignatius Catholic Church of Saint Matthias Parish in Bobtown. He gave generously of his time as a volunteer for church maintenance and groundskeeping. A retired coal miner with Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp., Shannopin Mine of Bobtown, Rich was also a proud member of the U.M.W.A. Union Local #6159 and a United States Army veteran who served honorably during the Korean War.

Rich found joy in connecting with others and was known for his friendly conversations. He served as a Boy Scout troop leader and enjoyed following Pittsburgh sports teams, hunting, fishing, occasional casino trips, and supporting local youth sports. Above all else, he cherished watching his children play for their high school and college teams.

Rich is survived by his sister, Veronica Joseph of Columbia Station, Ohio; three sons: Mark Zelina (wife Colleen) of Oceanport, New Jersey; Tom Zelina (wife Karen) of New Albany, Ohio; and Rick Zelina (wife Lisa) of Huntersville, North Carolina; one daughter: Carol Zapotosky of Uniontown; seven grandchildren: Kelsey (husband Logan Klinger), Sarah, Michael (wife Kayla), Eric, Andrew, Elizabeth (Lizzi), and William; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Friends will be received at Louis E. Rudolph Funeral Home in Point Marion on Friday, December 27 from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., followed by brief prayers. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Ignatius Church in Bobtown at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Fr. Francis Frazer officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park in Point Marion.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Ignatius Catholic Church of Saint Matthias Parish at 232 East High Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Condolences may be shared at www.louisrudolphfuneralhome.c…. May Rich’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and peace in knowing he is at rest with the Lord.

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