Jeffrey A. Zdinak

Jeffrey A. Zdinak, beloved brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 17, at Heritage Valley Beaver Hospital following a major cardiac arrest. He was 67 years old. His passing came just 71 days after the family bid farewell to his dear mother, Alice (Howe) Zdinak. His loss has left his family in shock and sorrow, though they take comfort in knowing he is reunited with the loved ones who went before him.

Born on July 18, 1958, in East Liverpool, Ohio, Jeffrey was the kind of person who never met a stranger. In a family as large as his, cousins became brothers, nieces and nephews became children, and titles hardly mattered; what mattered most was love. To so many, he was simply “Uncle Jeff,” a constant presence who offered laughter, advice, and a welcoming seat at the table, always with a beverage and a cigarette in hand.

Jeffrey was known as the life of the party, with a raspy laugh and a fearless spirit that could brighten any gathering. Whether helping with a move in the old “Tom’s” truck and horse trailer, stomping grapes to make wine, cooking for parties, crafting with his Cricut, or swapping stories and singing in the “old language” late into the night, Jeffrey had a gift for turning everyday moments into cherished memories. His conversations spanned family history, politics, culture, crafting, and faith. He lived boldly, never afraid to speak his mind or share his heart.

A graduate of Midland High School and longtime employee of Friendship Ridge, Jeffrey’s passions reflected his vibrant personality: his faith in God and love for his church, his unwavering Democratic pride (leaving this world fittingly on Constitution Day), his Carpatho-Rusyn heritage expressed through music, and his lifelong devotion to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Most importantly, Jeffrey dedicated his life to his family, especially as the loving caregiver to his late mother, Alice.

Though his sudden passing leaves an empty place at every family gathering, Jeffrey’s spirit will live on in the stories retold, the laughter remembered, and the bonds he nurtured. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his brothers, Father John E. Zdinak (Cindy) of Olmsted Falls, Ohio, and Stephen E. Zdinak (Therese) of Stratton, Ohio. His life was further blessed with many nieces and nephews, Nikol Gammalo (Tony), Sasha Zdinak, Stephanie Dever (Grant), Kimberly Warren (Brian), Natalie Kenny (Geoffrey), and Bethany Shaw (Derrick “DJ”); as well as great-nieces and nephews, Antonia “Nia” & Sammy Gamalo, Liam & Steven Dever, Alaina “Lainey,” Ethan, & Isaac Warren, Zaydin, Lydia, & Evelyn Kenny, and Ellie & Bailey Shaw. He will also be deeply missed by countless friends and extended family who will forever hold him close in memory.

Jeffrey was preceded in death by his beloved parents, John & Alice (Howe) Zdinak; his nephews, John and Joshua Zdinak; and his nieces, Daniella Zdinak and Brianna Warren.

In his honor, the family raises a glass to a brother, uncle, and friend who filled their lives with joy, stories, and countless memories, ones they will carry fondly today and always. Jeffrey will be laid to rest beside his parents at Toronto Union Cemetery.

A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.