Gene Vincent Zilavy

Gene was born in Salem, Ohio to Melechar and Victoria (Chleba) Zilavy on April 7, 1933.

He graduated from Salem High School before serving his country in the United States Army. Upon completion of his service, Gene formed the Zilavy Construction Company along with his brother Edward. Acting as general contractor and developer, together they built many beautiful homes, apartments and offices in their hometown. Gene enjoyed playing a round of golf, traveling with his wife and cheering for his Pittsburgh Steelers on Sundays. Gene served the Lord as an altar boy for almost two decades at St. Paul Catholic Church in Salem, Ohio and as a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Naples.

Remaining to mourn his loss is his wife Nancy Zilavy of Naples, Florida whom he married in Youngstown, Ohio and children Jeffrey (Staccie) Zilavy of Boardman, Ohio and Sally (Ray) Silvestri of Charleston, South Carolina. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Steven (Amanda) Silvestri, Ryan (Stephanie) Silvestri and Carly, Joshua and Benjamin Zilavy and three great-grandchildren, Cooper, Julianna and Rocco Silvestri. Spending time with his grandchildren was a highlight of Gene’s life. He also leaves two nieces from Salem, Ohio, Jane Massa and Kristen Egli.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Edward and Robert and sister Margaret Massa all of Salem.

A mass of Christian burial to celebrate Gene’s life will take place at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church on Friday, February 19 at 2:00 pm with military honors to follow. Friends and family may express condolences a half hour prior to the mass at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to St. John the Evangelist Capital Campaign, 625 111th Ave., Naples, Florida, 34108.