Walter G. "Wally" Zielinski, 68, of Lafferty Road, St. Clairsville, died Friday, January 1, 2016 at his home.

He was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 11, 1947 a son of the late Stanley Zielinski and Alicia Kowalski Dudek.

Wally was a retired union coal miner from Oglebay Norton Saginaw Mine and formerly worked for Ohio River Colliers. He was a graduate of St. Clairsville High School Class of 1965 and graduated from auto mechanics training in Pittsburgh. A few of his interests included hunting, fishing and boating. Wally was a loving husband, father and grandfather who cherished his two granddaughters. He lived life to the fullest and helped many individuals over the years providing a place to stay and helpful advice. He was a member of the former St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fairpoint.

In addition to his parents, and stepfather, Stanley Dudek, he was preceded in death by his sister, Pamela Dudek.

Surviving are his loving wife of 46 years, Sandra Zielinski; a son, Monte Zielinski; a special and loving daughter-in-law, Nancy Zielinski; two granddaughters, Brittani and Zoie Zielinski; two sisters, Kimberly Dudek and Lori Dudek; a brother, Joseph (Brandi) Dudek; nephews, Christopher Walisiak and Boe Dudek; niece, Taelor Dudek; sisters-in-law, Arlene Garczyk and Dorothy Stock; all of St. Clairsville; special aunt, Pearl Cattane of Maynard; his dog, Sadie; special cousin and friend, Tony Albright; special friends, Steve Vcelka, Chuck Juriga, Gary Kanyuch Sr., Andy Mistak Sr. and Paul Baker.

Family and friends will be received on Monday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m., with a Vigil Service at 6 p.m. at the Toothman Funeral Home in St. Clairsville.

Funeral Liturgy with Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in St. Clairsville with Father Thomas Chillog the celebrant. Burial will follow in Union Cemetery, St. Clairsville.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lafferty Vol. Fire Dept. or charity of donor's choice.