Vincent M Zolkosky Jr. Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Vincent M. Zolkosky of Lilburn died at the age of 82 on May 21, 2022. Mr. Zolkosky was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1939. After graduation he joined the Navy and traveled all over the world, finally landing in Florida, where he met LaVerne Powell. They eloped in short order, after LaVerne dubbed him the most fun person she ever met. They had fun for 59 years, although LaVerne once quipped that she had not known a two-year quarantine would be part of the bargain. Vince spent most of his Naval career on the USS Saratoga (CV-60), where he served in the capacity of fire control during the Cuban Missile Crisis. His love of ships began when he worked as a shipbuilder on the Edmund Fitzgerald and continued throughout his life, indulged throughout the 1960s as an expert water skier on his own beloved boat, Florida Gold. Vince was universally acknowledged by his acquaintance as the best of dads, even to people who weren’t his kids. He loved children and thought that babies were the funniest things in the world. He invented games and assisted in pranks and crafts and generally had almost as much fun as the kids. Vince and LaVerne created a safe, welcoming space for young people in their house, and many of those young people have stayed in touch for decades. Vince was an incomparable raconteur, the most popular Mystery Reader at his grandchildren's school, where his presence heralded classroom chaos and revelry. He was known for teaching through parables–sometimes to the exasperation of his daughters–and providing life's soundtrack via his 12-string and strong voice. Vince started working as an engineer for Lanier Business Products in 1964 and retired as National Service Manager in 2005. He was a mentor to several young employees and was known for his ethics, honesty, and elaborate presentations full of stories and magic tricks. He retired approximately 8 times, as he found retirement boring, and continued to provide guidance and support to a host of small businesses. Mr. Zolkosky is survived by his wife LaVerne, daughters Laurie Zolkosky and Lynn Zyskowski (seriously, it's not the same name), son-in-law Peter Zyskowski, and two brothers and four sisters. Vince's legacy is carried forward by his beloved and devoted grandchildren, Aniele, Ezra, and Petra Zyskowski. Vince was undoubtedly greeted by a legion of adoring dogs who are overjoyed to see their fearless leader again. The memorial to celebrate the life of Vincent Zolkosky will be held on Sunday, June 12, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Tom M. Wages Snellville Chapel, Snellville, GA. The family will receive friends Sunday prior to the service from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider a donation to a charity of your choice that benefits children. Due to COVID-19 regulations, our staff is committed to taking care of our guests and families that we serve. We also ask all guests and family members attending visitations and services to please continue social distancing and if desired to bring and wear a mask. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.wagesfuneralhome.com. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, A Family Company, 3705 Highway 78 West, Snellville, GA 30039 (770-979-3200) has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Vincent M Zolkosky Jr.

November 18, 1939 - May 21, 2022