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Dianne Swisher posted a condolence
Friday, June 24, 2022
I met Jack when he moved to The Palm Beaches. I was his Realtor and friend. He wrote this poem while on a summer trip to Alaska. It is a reflection of his life.
I Hope you enjoy it and think of Jack as you read it.. Can’t you just see this man climbing a mountain all the way to the top and enjoying every challenge.
The trail is like my life-
mostly rocks -
some boulders-
surrounded by sticky mud.
not many easy places-
The way you have to scramble-
fallen trees-
slippery roots.
I’ve walked this way before- always uphill
stumbling here and there.
not many easy places-
The drizzle stopped now-
high elevation-
above the clouds-
The sun warms my face-
the wind cools it too-
sweating through the layers-
I am walking in the ridge now-
seeing forever-
in every direction-
this is an easy place-
this is an easy place-
but the fun was in the climb.
Rest in peace my dear friend. I cherish all of my memories of you.
Love you my friend
Dianne
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The family of Jack B. Zito uploaded a photo
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
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Thomas Benjamin Zito (son) posted a condolence
Saturday, September 15, 2018
Obituary of Jack B Zito, (genealogical updates by his son, Thomas)
Jack Benjamin Zito, Ph.D., a dear friend and true Renaissance man, passed away July 29, 2018 after a heroic struggle with heart disease. Jack was born on October 15, 1944 at the Naval Hospital in Somerville, Massachusetts and is preceded in death by his parents Jack Domenic Zito of Mohawk, his natural mother Jeane Viola (Lane) and his stepmother Mary (Panko). He is survived by two sons, Thomas Benjamin Zito of San Diego, CA Jack Edward Zito of Yaphank, Long Island, NY, and the love of his life, Jayne Sadlon Guchone, of Cooperstown, who was by his side in his final moments.
Jack was a 1962 graduate of Mohawk Central Schools, and was known as "Crusher' during his wrestling years. He was an outstanding athlete and was the only one who earned 5 letters in sports. Jack considered Scottie Anderson the "Brother" he never had and loved dearly. Jack will always remember Gail, Kathy and Janice for their kindness. Jack was proud of his Sicilian heritage. When his father owned the Mohawk Village Market he spent countless hours in his teenage years learning the trade of an old-school butcher alongside his father and grandfather, Bennie who immigrated to Frankfort from San Giuseppe Jato, Sicily in 1912.
Jack entered the lives of many friends here in Cooperstown and fellow musicians only a year ago. He quickly became one of the boys, taking center stage with his beloved trombone. He added a new sound and a wonderful spirit to the music, creating transcendent memories for the band and audiences with his Dixieland and jazz style.
Cooperstown met Jack through music but came to know him as an intellect and a sports aficionado. There was not a thing he seemingly couldn't master: football, mathematics, teaching and coaching, creative writing, carpentry and architecture to name a few.
Known as "Dr. Z" in many circles, Jack attended Annapolis and played Division 1 college football for the Hurricanes of Miami University. He was awarded teacher of the year at three different schools where he coached football, basketball and track, winning several state and national championships. After retirement, Jack wrote a fictional novel, "The Sicilian Experience of Mr. Benny." A walk through Jack and Jayne's new home would reveal carpentry skills and exquisite taste. Jack was also a former member of the Cooperstown Lions Club and was awaiting induction to the Rotary Club as well. He was awarded a gift from President Clinton for his achievements in education. Jack was a master at craps and Vegas remembers him well.
Jack had a brilliant mind and many talents, but his greatest gift was his warmth and grace, which he extended to all who met him. He was a rascal with a wry sense of humor and he loved to make others laugh. He was a gentle giant, a large man who referred to his pickup truck as "the Beast."
Jack will forever be remembered by his friends and loved ones. He will be missed.
At Jack's request, he is being cremated and his ashes scattered over his favorite place as a child. There are no public services. To honor his memory, embrace a friend in need, mentor a young person, foster goodwill.
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Jane posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 7, 2018
Jack was known to me as one of my dad’s students. Jack would stop by our house during his travels and fill us in with the joys of his trips, work, and music. He brought a special light to the world, a smile to my dad’s face, and joy that was unmistakable. RIP big guy!
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The Whiter Funeral Company was started in 1893 by H.A. Whiter and was originally located in Forestport, NY. Following a fire in Forestport, the family relocated in Ilion, and reopened the funeral home in the early 1900's.
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