Obituary of Gary E. Zalewski, Sr.

Gary E. Zalewski, Sr., 73, of Clinton and formerly of Clark Mills, passed away at home on October 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. 

He was born July 22, 1951, a son of the late Arthur Little and Elaine Johnson Little.  Gary was united in marriage to Patricia Galinski on August 28, 1971.  They shared 53 years of love and devotion.   

Gary was hard-working and rarely sat idle.  He retired from NYS Psychiatric Center as a cook, drove Bus 16 for Clinton Central School, worked at Meelan’s Market and was the owner of Big Z’s Pizza.  He also made time to serve his community as a member and the treasurer for Clark Mills Fire Department. He loved to golf, play softball and was proud of his 300-game in bowling. Gary and Pat loved to travel and looked forward to their Labor Day Weekend Adventures with Bob and Fran Meelan. Gary was the life of every party! He lived life to the fullest and encouraged his family to do the same.  Gary loved to plan meals and entertain his family and friends. Of all of his adventures, time spent with his family was his favorite.   

He will be missed by his devoted wife Patricia; his two daughters and son, Michele and Brian Campbell of Rome, Gary and McKinley Zalewski, Jr. of Clinton, and Amanda Stanek and Kevin Pope of Westmoreland; his beloved grandchildren, Abby, Tyler, Gary III, Kamdyn, Justin, Lily, Bryce and Claire; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Laurie and Rick Moore of MD and Nancy and Joe Dickerson of MD; many nieces and nephews; his Uncle Lynn Johnson; and the Galinski Families. He was predeceased by his parents and an infant brother Arthur. 

The Zalewski family thanks Bob and Fran Meelan, Michael Johnson, Hospice and Clinton Fire Department for all they did for Gary. 

All are invited to call Monday, October 21, 2024, from 4-7pm at Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, 35 College St., Clinton.  Funeral Mass will be held at 10am Tuesday at St. Mary’s Church in Clinton.

Please consider donations in Gary’s memory to Clinton Fire Department, Clark Mills Fire Department or Hospice and Palliative Care.