Obituary of Peter Paul Zakala

Peter P. Zakala, 84, of Rome, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 09, 2017. He was born in Rome on March 13, 1932, the son of Mykola and Martha Royko Zakala. On May 11, 1957, he was united in marriage to Anita Louise Mastrangelo, also of Rome. Peter was a graduate of Rome Free Academy, Class of 1950. Following high school, he began his career at Griffiss Air Force Base as a Carpenter, later becoming a Certified Electrician. Peter chose a new career path in 1960 when he became a City of Rome Firefighter. He retired after 26 years of service. Peter was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed spending time hunting and fishing. Some of his passions included: berry picking, corn picking, storytelling, and anything having to do with nature. He took pride in the accomplishments of his children, especially when his youngest son David was building his log home. Peter is survived at home by his loving wife of 59 years, Anita, and his pet dog, Bailey; a daughter, Paula (Larry) DeFrees; three sons, Mark Zakala, David (Allison) Zakala, and John Prendergast ("Dr. John"); 8 grandchildren, Heather DeFrees and Rob Sharpe, Angel Rotach, Amber (Shaun) Lewis, April Zakala, Brianna and Ava Zakala, and Brianna and Samantha Prendergast; three great grandchildren, Matthew and Olivia Sharpe, and Alessondra Rotach; four sisters, Catherine Pelano, Mary Remick, Anna Dole, and Helen Edwards; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by five brothers, Richard, Russell, John, Steve, and Michael. Family and friends are invited to call at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Rd., Rome on Tuesday, March 14, 2017 from 4 – 7PM. A prayer service will immediately follow at 7pm for those wishing to attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Heart Association.