Edwin “Ed” J. Zitta, 88, a longtime resident of Winchester died on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at Maplewood Nursing Home in Westmoreland. He passed peacefully with the love of family near after a brief period of declining health.
Edwin was born the son of the late Mary (Kazloski) and Joseph Zitta on March 28, 1930 in Montague, Massachusetts. He was educated in Montague and graduated from Turners Falls High School class of 1948
Soon after high school Ed enlisted in the U. S. Navy. As time went on he transferred over to the U. S. Air Force where he made a career. He served his country during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Ed retired honorably at the rank of Sr. Master Sgt. E-8 after twenty-seven years of loyal service to his country.
In 1955 he exchanged vows with Katherine Dubriske at St. Stanislaus Church in Winchester. They were married with family and friends in attendance. Sadly, Katherine passed on February 18, 2018 after sixty-three years of marriage. With a marriage and military service they traveled the world with their children in tow.
After retirement Ed and his family settled in Winchester. Ed felt it necessary to continue his education. He enrolled at Keene State College taking night classes and working. Ed earned his Masters of Science in Vocational Education. With his education Ed accepted a position in Brattleboro, VT. as a Vocational Education Teacher. In 1989 he was awarded the Vocational Education Teacher of the year award.
Ed had many interests in life. He was a devout Catholic and member of St. Stanislaus Church in Winchester. He was always ready to get involved and lend a helping hand. Time was given freely to be the Post Commander and Chaplain at the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Winchester Post #2123 where he held various positions for thirty-five years. For the town of Winchester, he gave freely of his time to be a member of the Selectmen, Budget Committee, and School District Moderator. Ed was a very kind and giving man to everyone in need.
Mr. Zitta is survived by his children; Joseph Zitta of Salem, Gary Zitta and his wife Karen of Swanzey, Paula Zitta and her husband Robert Galloway of Derry. Four grandchildren; Michelle Manley, Joshua Zitta, Scott Zitta and Katie Zitta. Three great grandchildren Evelyn, Logan and Caroline. A sister, Louise Traceski of California. Many nieces and nephews who he loved dearly. Ed is predeceased by his loving daughter, Debra Zitta who died in 1999. He will be missed in our lives but will be joining the love of his life and his daughter.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, May 7, 2018 from 6 to 8pm. in the funeral home. A mass with will be held on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at 10am. in Mary Queen of Peace, St. Stanislaus Church, Richmond Rd. Winchester. Burial will follow in the family lot with full military honors at Evergreen Cemetery, Richmond Rd. Winchester, NH.03470. Flowers will gladly be accepted. However, family and family values meant everything to Ed. He would have wanted you to take in a baseball game or go fishing with your loved ones.
All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home and Crematories, 46 South Winchester St. Swanzey, NH. 03446. WWW.cheshirefamilyfh.com
