Obituary

Jerry Joseph Zalmanek, 93, of Chippewa Township, died in the early morning hours on Friday, December 22, 2023, at Good Samaritan Hospice, Heritage Valley – Beaver.

Born on February 5, 1930, in Leetsdale, PA, he was the son of the late Frank and Rosie (Janecek) Zalmanek.

Jerry had retired from ARCO Chemical Corporation as a Draftsman and had been a 50-year member of the Chippewa United Methodist Church where he served several years on the board of trustees.  He had served as Webelos leader for 4 years and Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 409 for several years.  Jerry was also a 50 year plus member of C.S.A. Fraternal Life, serving in many positions including President.  Jerry also was a Korean War Veteran in the Army, where he served on the front line. Jerry enjoyed woodworking, keeping up with his coin collection, working on puzzles, and spending time with his family. Jerry loved playing music, where he played in several bands including Buddy Krebs Band, Geneva College Band, Jimmy Sebastian Band, and many others.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Beryl (McCaw) Zalmanek; sons, Jerry and Johnna (Smithberger) Zalmanek and Robert Zalmanek; grandchildren, Jack, Julia, Aiden, and Joseph; brother-in-law, Robert McCaw; sister-in-law, Eva Jane Figley; nieces and nephews, Margaret and Pete Srnik, Rebecca Stark, Deborah and Glen Waller, Kathryn and Daniel Clayton, Courtney and Joe Nyoh, Robert Edward and Melissa McCaw, and Carol Figley; numerous cousins; and his closest friend, Donnalee Fowler. He also leaves behind Sammy, his best friend, that stayed by his side daily.  The best dog a man could have. 

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brothers, Frank and Edward Zalmanek.

Friends will be received on Thursday, December 28^th from 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC.- 117 Blackhawk Rd., Chippewa Twp.- www.gabauerfamilyfuneralhomes.com.  Jerry will lie in state on Friday, December 29^th from 10am until the time of services at 11am in the Chippewa United Methodist Church- 2545 Darlington Rd, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.  Pastor Alan Brooks will officiate. Beaver County Special Unit will provide full military honors at the church at 11am.

Private interment will follow at Grandview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jerry’s name to Good Samaritan Hospice- 1000 Dutch Ridge Rd. Floor 4, Beaver PA 15009 or to the Butler VA Health Care System-353 N Duffy Rd., Butler, PA 16001.