Thomas A. Ziska's Obituary
Thomas A. Ziska, 78, passed away unexpectedly on July 18, 2026. Born on July 8, 1948, Tom was the cherished son of the late Albert C. and Lucille P. Ziska. He dedicated his life to service, education, and family.
Tom proudly served his country as a United States Marine until 1968, specializing as an aircraft technician. Following his military service, he became a passionate and respected educator, shaping the minds of future generations. He left a lasting impact teaching Industrial Arts at Parma City Schools, Berea City Schools, Cuyahoga Falls High School, and Ohio Diesel. He brought his technical expertise to his work at Keithley Instruments.
Outside of the classroom, Tom filled his life with creativity and joy; he loved attending concerts, capturing memories through photography, and he also spent time gardening. A lifelong learner, Tom earned an Associate's degree from Cuyahoga Community College, a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University, and a double Master's degree in Administration and Technology from Baldwin Wallace University. He also studied photography and Photoshop at Cuyahoga Community College and Lorain County Community College where he honed his skills as a nature and concert photographer. He loved welding and all things automotive, especially ’57 Chevys and the Corvette Pace Cars.
A ratchet and a camera were essential to appropriate dress for any occasion.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Joan M. Ziska (nee Ziemba); his devoted sons, Michael A. and Patrick J., his daughter-in-law, Sharon Ziska (nee Walter); and his cherished grandson, Logan M. Ziska. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy A. Horn (nee Ziska) and brother, Stephen. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow veterans, and the former students whose lives he touched.
Special Requests
• Visitation: Guests attending Sunday visitation are warmly invited to wear a favorite concert t-shirt in memory of Tom’s love for live music.
• Mass & Procession: PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH. Those attending the Mass and interment are encouraged to drive a classic vehicle to celebrate Tom's passion.
Visitation and Services
Visitation:
Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Jardine Funeral Home
15822 Pearl Rd, Strongsville, OH 44136
Mass of Christian Burial
Monday, August 3, 2026 | 11:00 AM
St. John Neumann Catholic Church
16271 Pearl Rd, Strongsville, OH 44136
Interment
Holy Cross Cemetery
14609 Brookpark Rd, Brook Park, OH 44142
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to:
Disabled American Veterans
P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301 or
Vet Tix (Veteran Tickets Foundation)
(Please select “In Honor Of” in the gift information section)
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