Robert R. Ziaja, 80

ADAMS, Mass. — Mr. Robert R. Ziaja, 80, of Adams died unexpectedly on Monday, October 9, 2017, at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield. 

He was born in Adams on September 15, 1937, the son of Stanley and Mary (Maynard) Ziaja, and attended Adams and North Adams schools. He was a Veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving with the US Air Force in England. 

Mr. Ziaja worked as a laboratory technician at the Adams Wastewater Treatment Plant for 30 years until retiring. Earlier, he had worked at the former Sprague Electric Co. He was a member of the Wild Turkey Federation. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, hiking, spending time in the woods, and playing his harmonica. He was a fan of the New England Patriots. 

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, the former JoAnne L. Horton, whom he married on July 29, 1961; a daughter, Marianne McGreal and her husband, Paul, of Omaha, Nebraska; a son, Mark Ziaja and his wife, Debra, of Adams; three grandchildren, Patrick McGreal , Malina Ziaja and Anelia Ziaja; a stepbrother, Robert Boudreau of the State of Florida; and a stepsister, Gloria Evans of Pittsfield. 

Funeral notice: Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2017, at 10 a.m. in the Paciorek Funeral Home, 13 Hoosac St., Adams. Rev. Michael Mullany, pastor of the First Congregational Church of Adams will officiate. Burial will follow in Bellevue Cemetery, Adams. 

Calling hours are Wednesday, October 11, 2017, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to the Adams Council on Aging, 3 Hoosac St. Adams, MA 01220.