Edward S. Zalig

Edward S. Zalig of Fountain Hills died peacefully at his home surrounded by family on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017. Edward was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great friend to so many.

He was the youngest of five children born to Rose and Michael Zalig on Oct. 29, 1933 in Chicago, Ill. He graduated from St. Rita’s High School in Chicago in 1951, served our country in the Armed forces from 1954-1956 as a dental technician, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from DePaul University in 1963.

Edward married Gloria Bujnowski in 1956, and they resided in Countryside, Ill. to raise their five children. Ed was very athletic and enjoyed playing all sports; in his leisure time he was passionate about fishing and photography, so when Ed and Gloria retired and moved to Fountain Hills, he was thrilled to spend time fishing in Payson, often catching a record breaking fish.

Photography was an art that he enjoyed particularly the beautiful Arizona scenery and wildlife. Ed was a volunteer photographer at the Church of the Ascension, as well as an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Ed is survived by his loving wife, Gloria H. of 61 years; daughters, Kathleen (Thomas) Mastbaum, Lynda (Leon) Vitort, Kimberly (Paul) Rudkin, Deborah, and his son Edward (Angie) Zalig; and seven grandchildren, Lindsay (Bo) Weidner, Lauren Vitort, Alison and Amanda Miceli, Taylor, Aiden and Paige Zalig; and his brother, William (Joan) Zalig. He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Rose; and his three sisters, Mary Kowalczyk, Rose Bonk, and Elizabeth Michaelsen.

A special thank you to Hospice of the Valley, family and friends who dedicated their time to provide Ed comfort and care.

Ed will be greatly missed, yet remembered for his strong character, wit, compassion, faith, love and dedication he freely gave to his wife and family.

Funeral mass will be held at the Church of the Ascension on Monday, Nov. 20, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. followed by a Veterans Military service at 12:30 p.m. at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix. Arrangements entrusted to Messinger Mortuary.