Gary Ernest Zinkon

Gary Ernest Zinkon, aged 80, passed away on July 2, 2024, in Beckley, WV. Born on July 22, 1943, in Coshocton, OH, Gary was a man of many passions and pursuits, known for his generosity, humor, and humility.

Gary was raised on his parents’ farm near Chili, OH and was very active with 4-H. He graduated from Fresno High School in Fresno, OH, before attending The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH and earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture Science in three years. His professional life was as diverse and dynamic as his personality. He thrived as an auctioneer, real estate broker, horse and cattle farmer, restaurant owner and teacher, excel-ling in each field with great enthusiasm and expertise. He began his working life as an industrial arts teacher in Baltic, OH. He then operated a public real estate and auctioneer business in Coshocton, OH for several years with Herb Peddicord before branching out on his own. He raised Holstein dairy cattle on his farm near Fresno, OH for a few years before transitioning to raising, training, and racing standardbred horses. He lived in Zanesville, OH for several years where he owned and operated Nicoletti’s Restaurant. He relocated to Cunard, WV in later years where he bought and sold property and became a fixture in his community.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Gary was passionate about all things related to horses. He was also an avid sports fan, particularly enjoying basketball. He followed West Virginia University men’s basketball religiously. His knack for buying low and selling high was not just a business strategy but also a hobby that he pursued with zeal. Gary always had a good joke or story to tell (often repeatedly) and was always willing to help someone in need of work. He enjoyed good conversations with people from all walks of life and getting to know his children’s and other family members’ friends and his neighbors. Gary never met a stranger, and his life motto was “Early to bed and early to rise, work like Hell and advertise”.

Family was the corner-stone of Gary’s life. He is survived by his sister, Sally (Larry) Leindecker of Coshocton, OH; his children, Edward (Bambi) Zinkon of West Lafayette, OH; Joanna (Kevin) Fillman of Farmville, VA; Yancey (Rose) Zinkon of Evans, GA; and Grant (Jennifer) Zinkon of Johns Island, SC. Gary was also a proud grandfather to Adam and Kelby Fitch (Jake Burns); Ross (Madeleine) and Cole Fillman; Andrew, Ashley, Aiden, and Evan Zinkon; and Ella Cate and William Jacob Zinkon. He also cherished his great-grandsons, Porter and Pratt Burns, and great-granddaughter, Tyler Fillman. His nephew, Eric (Kristi) Leindecker, and niece, Jan (Adam) Mrozinski, and their families also survive him.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Viola (Schlarb) Zinkon.

A devoted member of Daystar Worship Center in Mount Hope, WV, Gary’s faith was an important aspect of his life, providing him with both comfort and community.

A private family service officiated by Pastor Larry Humphrey was held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 13, 2024, to honor Gary’s life and legacy. This was followed by a reception for family and friends at Daystar Worship Center. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Daystar Worship Center. His life was a testament to the joy and fulfillment one can find through dedication to family, career, and hobbies. Gary’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Category: Obituaries