Zachary L. “Zack” Sockaci, 94

Zachary L. “Zack” Sockaci of Fombell passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Wednesday evening, November 23, 2016 after a brief illness.
He was born February 19, 1922 in Park Gate (Ellwood City) to the late John D. Sockaci and Adrienne (Pelissier) Sockaci. Zack graduated from Lincoln High School in 1939. He enlisted in the US Coast Guard in 1942 and achieved the rank of Machinist Mate 2nd Class and served on submarine patrol in the North Atlantic. He was discharged in December of 1945.
He married Helen L. Slevin of Ellwood City April 10, 1944. They bought a farm in Fombell in November of 1946 and worked together as stewards of the land. It is still operated today by his son Theodore and his family. He retired from the US Steel National Tube Division after 35 years of service.
He was a longtime member of the Lillyville Church of God serving on the cemetery committee and as Sunday School teacher, Deacon and Trustee. Zack loved baseball, football and boxing. One of his favorite memories was meeting the former Heavy Weight Champion, Jack Dempsey, while serving in the Coast Guard in 1943.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen in August 2010. He was also preceded by his brother John Eugene Sockaci in March 1946; a son, Stephen Edward Sockaci in October 1959;  a grandson, Zachary  Stephen  Sockaci in March 2006; and a granddaughter, Amy Beth Sockaci in August 2011.
He is survived by three sons and three daughters: Theodore(and Debbie) Sockaci of Fombell; John(and Elizabeth) of Ellwood City; Zachary Lyle( and Carol) of Darlington; Lorraine( and Peter Oanes) Starsky of Pittsburgh; Mary Sockaci and Ann Sockaci of Albuquerque NM, thirteen grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren,and numerous nieces and nephews. His brother, Raymond of New Brighton, his sister, Audrienne Hanes of Tavares, Florida and a close cousin, Lafe Pelissier of Wampum also survive.
Friends will be received from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. on Sunday, November 27, 2016 in the TURNER FUNERAL HOME, 500 Sixth Street, Ellwood City. Services will be conducted at the Lillyville Church of God on Monday, November 28, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. with his pastor, Rev. Dennis Arndt, officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Lillyville Church of God.
You may read the obituary, sign the guestbook, or send condolences at: www.turnerfh.com
The family wishes to thank the staff and nurses of Kindred Hospice of New Castle PA for their care.