Patricia C. Zalaco

On February 13, 2021, our Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother was peacefully lifted up to heaven from the comforts of her home surrounded by her three children and two sons-in-law by her side – just the way she wanted.

Patricia Zalaco was born in Herkimer, New York on October 7, 1930 to Louis and Rose Zazzarino. She was one of 4 children and was raised in Herkimer for 13 years before moving to California. Patricia married the love of her life, Joseph Zalaco on September 20, 1947. They settled into a beautiful life together in Lakewood, California where they raised their 3 children, Jim, Madeline and Rosemarie. You would often find Joe and Patricia enjoying their time together in Laughlin, Nevada. Drinking her coffee while playing Keno was one of her favorite pastimes. Joe preceded her in death on January 26, 1989.

Patricia wasn’t’ much taller than her youngest great grandchild, but her personality and love for her family was gigantic. She would spend a few days making her 5-pound lasagna to perfection for a holiday meal. There are only a few of us who can come close to replicating her amazing dish. She prayed every night for each and every one of us to have good health and happiness. It was of upmost importance to our mom, nana, gram and shorty (as she was referred to), that every on of us enjoyed a cookie or cup of coffee when we would visit. Her gracious heart and dedication to her family will be forever missed, but will always be cherished.

She is survived by her three children: Jim Zalaco, Madeline Starina (son-in-law Bill), and Rosemarie Gosano (son-in-law Ed) along with her five grandsons: Billy (fiancé Shery) and Joseph Starina (wife Carrie), Nick and Jim Gosano, and Joe Zalaco (wife Lisa). She also leaves behind five great grandchildren: Anthony, Carmen, Alissa, Taylor and Vinny.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401