John "Ben" Zak

John Benjamin “Ben” Zak, Sr, 88, passed away on November 7, 2023. He was born on February 23,1935 in Wellsville, OH. Ben graduated from East High School as part of the class of 1953. He earned an Associates’ Degree from Franklin University. Ben was drafted into the Korean Conflict and served in the Army from 1957-1959. He was honorably discharged, then continued serving in the Army Reserves until 1963. He worked for Federal Glass, Rockwell International, Amtekco, Boeing and McDonnell Douglas. He contributed to the hydraulic system design of the B1 Bomber as a draftsman.

Ben loved his family more than anything in the world. Spending time with his wife (nicknamed “Kid”), children, and grandchildren, especially during Sunday dinners, were the highlight of his life. He was the support system for everyone - calm and caring, no fuss, just a quiet, behind the scenes caretaker. He left behind a legacy of selflessness. He loved participating in sports and watching his children and grandchildren playing. Antiquing, fishing, golfing, making furniture for family were some of his hobbies. His most treasured antique finds were Tonka trucks and riding-style toys for his grandchildren (and he found many). He loved his pup “Gracie” who also made a visit to the hospital. He was a member of the Church of Christ in Galena.

Ben is preceded in death by his son-in-law, Mitch Smith; great grandson, Langston Schnars; mother, Della Bales; brother, Dave; sisters, Shirley, Phyllis, Ina and Donna; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

He will be truly missed by his loving wife of 66 years, Shirley; daughter Laura; sons, John (Rhonda), Doug (Jody), Steve, Ed (Andre); grandchildren Charlie (Tami) Smith, Jacquie (Josh) Blankenship, Dusty (Lori) Smith, Jordan Zak, Jamie (Luke) Schnars, Mackenzie Zak, Kelsie (Evan) Killilea, Karlie (Johnny) Cannell, Laney Zak, Addy Zak, Ellie Zak; great grandchildren Kiersten, Aiden, Tesla, Tennyson, Dempsey, Harper, Kyler, Lennon, Hallie, Kip, Harley and Hudson; plus numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023, from 11am-12pm at Cross Point Christian Church, 10659 Johnstown Road, New Albany, OH 43054, with Ben’s funeral immediately following, beginning at 12pm. Services will conclude with interment at Mifflin Township Cemetery in Gahanna.