Robert A. Zilinski, 74, of 1116 S. Mercer St. passed away the afternoon of July 28, 2020, at his residence. Robert was born March 8, 1946, in New Castle. He was the son of the late William and Helen (Lyskooka) Zilinski. Helen later married Stanley Kulinski.
Robert was of the Roman Catholic faith. He grew up in the Croton area. He enlisted in the US Navy on March 12, 1963, earning the rank of E1. He was honorably discharged and returned to school. He graduated from New Castle High School, class of 1966. Robert worked at the Youngstown Sheet and Tube for four years following graduation. He held several jobs over his 74 years, with the most time spent at Tanner Plating and the YDC in New Castle.
His love of learning new things led him to various training courses, one of which was at Contact Ministries and Lifeline International. After being certified in 1977, he served several years at the Crisis Hotline. He later earned his truck driving certificate from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. After 5 years of service as a cement truck driver, he retired from Castle Builders Supply. Robert took pride in being the first person in New Castle to own a blue Roadrunner, and in his numerous letters to the editor of the New Castle News. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his best friends in the Lower Croton Gang.
Mr. Zilinski is survived by one aunt and several cousins.
Robert was preceded in death by both his parents and several aunts and uncles. A graveside service will be conducted at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 29, 2020, in SS Philip and James Cemetery. Deacon John Carran of Holy Spirit Parish will officiate. Local arrangements were entrusted to the Noga Funeral Home Inc. 1142 S. Mill St.