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Barbara ZOLTANSKI Obituary

ZOLTANSKI Barbara Finsel Corrected Photo Barbara Finsel Zoltanski passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 20th, 2010. She was born in Fostoria, Ohio in 1929. Her great- grandparents, John and Kunigunda Finsel, were 1848 Bavarian immigrants who became Ohio pioneer farmers. Their son, Mrs. Zoltanski's grandfather, John Eldon Finsel, received his advanced education from Valparaiso Normal School in 1878. He and his wife, Mary Magdelene Finsel, were both teachers and became the first of four successive generations of educators in the Finsel family. Mr. Finsel later served as a politician in Hancock County where he was township trustee and commissioner. The Finsels' focus on faith, public service and education became a legacy continued by their eleven children, five of whom were Sisters of Notre Dame, who taught in the Dioceses of Cleveland and Toledo. Their son, Father Karl Finsel, an ordained Catholic priest, was the pastor and builder of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus Grove. Mrs. Zoltanski was the daughter of Ralph Augustine Finsel, one of John E. Finsel's eleven children. Her mother was Helen Hoffbauer Finsel. In 1948, under the guidance of the Dominican Sisters at St. Mary of the Springs College for Women in Columbus, Mrs. Zoltanski strengthened the foundation of education and service, set by her parents. There she received her Bachelor's Degree in teaching in 1952. Mrs. Zoltanski taught first grade in one of the last remaining four-room schoolhouses in rural Ohio. Throughout the course of her life, Mrs. Zoltanski honored her family heritage of service through international and local concerns. She reached beyond her community to raise awareness and generate funds to support special needs children in developing countries. She did so with a particular interest in Guatemala. She involved her local community to respond to the plight of the Chernobyl disaster, working to supply safe food to families. She promoted cultural exchange that fostered understanding and peace, welcoming international students and Asian educators to reside in her family home. On a local level, her efforts resulted in the first federally-funded hot lunch program at her community elementary school, the establishment of publicly provided transportation for faith-based schools in Lucas County, and the preservation of Maumee Valley historic structures targeted by expanding industry. She was deeply concerned with the needs of Toledo central city children, where she was a volunteer teacher. Mrs. Zoltanski sought means and opportunities to offer direct comfort and nutrition to others. She served meals at St. Francis De Sales soup kitchen and drove a door-to-door bread route delivering to families in need; the recipient list formed by word of mouth. An accomplished pianist, throughout her life with her husband and many children, Mrs. Zoltanski routinely visited the elderly, sick and local nursing homes to play the piano and read poetry. A lifelong student of American history, particularly the Civil War and the Maumee River Valley, Mrs. Zoltanski shared her knowledge via a weekly newspaper column in the Maumee Herald. Trail Lore chronicled Ohio history and documented stories of local residents and their place in regional events. Mrs. Zoltanski was affiliated with the Ohio Dominican University Alumni Association, the League of Women Voters, the American Association of University Women where she was president of the investment group, Foundation for Life, Heartbeat of Toledo and the Auxiliary of the Little Sisters of the Poor. Mrs. Zoltanski was a humble and vibrant example of faith, service and education to her 10 children, all of whom are equally committed to public service through professions in medicine, teaching, government, law, engineering, finance, historic preservation and nutrition. She was predeceased by her cherished son, Mark Francis. She is survived by her devoted husband and partner of 56 years, Attorney Edward F. Zoltanski; her children, Teresa Zoltanski, Esq., Cecilia Zoltanski Ross, Mary Zoltanski DeWitt, Thomas Edward, Stephen John, Peter Joseph, Helen Zoltanski, Monica Zoltanski, Esq., Joan Zoltanski Karabogias, M.D. and her treasured grand-children. She is also survived by her siblings, Mildred Naderer, Mary Gabel, Charles Finsel and was predeceased by Ursula Maciejewski, Catherine Knopp and Norman Finsel. Visitation will be held at the Sujkowski Funeral Home of Rossford, OH, 830 Lime City Road, on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 24th and 25th from 5:00-8:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 26th, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 104 W. Broadway St., Maumee, OH. The family respectfully requests consideration of the Mark Francis Zoltanski Tuition Assistance Fund, which benefits students at St. Joseph's School with special and financial needs. Contributions may be directed to St. Joseph's Church, 104 W. Broadway, Maumee, OH 43537.

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Published by The Gazette from Aug. 22 to Aug. 23, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Barbara ZOLTANSKI

Not sure what to say?





Tommye Grant

August 16, 2024

Continued condolences to the family and my colleague Helen.

Matt Giraud

September 16, 2010

Barbara was such a wonderful lady. She was a HUGE supporter of mine and I always adored her. I never heard anything but wonderful things about her and the way she raised her kids. My heart goes out to the entire family.

Veronica Dominique Hart

September 7, 2010

Ed and family,
I just learned of Barbara's journey to see Christ and wanted to let you know our family (Veronica Dominique Hart and John Hart and daughters- Kirsten and Rebecca Hart of Cave Creek, AZ) will keep you and your family in our prayers as you grieve her loss. We learned of it upon return from a much needed rest off the mainland.
I have memories of babysitting your oldest 7-8 children and assisting when you/Barbara needed an extra young, shy teen's hand! I recall a large event you hosted outside at your home under a large tent that included an auction and assisted Barbara with framing some items (shadow box effect).
If you/family ever visit Arizona "mi casa est su casa."
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Veronica Dominique Hart

Tommye Grant

September 7, 2010

Thank you Helen for sharing a rich history of caring and giving by your mother and her family.

September 4, 2010

To my VERY FAVORITE client... Barb! I will dearly miss doing your hair and your friendship.... and just visiting w/you. Til we meet again on the other side... God be w/you. I know your ever so happy to see your beloved son again and all others who crossed over before you. Sydney... maumee Great Clips

David Chelminski

September 1, 2010

Dear Mr. Zoltanski and Family and Friends,

Sincere condolences upon your loss, but what a legacy Mrs. Zoltanski has left behind, in her family and these remembrances and acknowledgements. Always remembering your exceptional hospitality to the Polish agricultural delegation from our Sister City of Poznan and Mrs. Zoltanska's ever gracious manners. As we say in Polish, Honor to her memory!

Eternal Rest grant unto her, O Lord. May she rest in Peace. Amen.

David G. Chelminski, President
Toledo-Poznan Alliance

Sr. Pat Garrahan, SND

August 27, 2010

Dear Helen,
My sympathy and prayers for you and your family on the death of your mother. May you continue to know her loving presence in your lives.
Sorry we have lost touch.
Are you still in DC? Please contact me when you return.
Blessings!

August 26, 2010

To Ed and the family of Barbara,
Our prayers and love are with you at this time of sorrow. Barbara has touched so many lives with love and kindness. May we extend to you our deepest sympathy.
Betty Yost(Wife of deceased Donald Yost)and Family.

Kevin Rantanen

August 26, 2010

Barbara was such a kind and giving person... just a few weeks before her unexpected passing, I shared with her that my sister was going through Chemo Therapy and how she was to have breast surgery the following week ...Barbara immediately sent a card giving her encouragement and enclosed a Meijer gift card to help with her expenses. Barbara had never even met my sister. Mary was SOOOO surprised and thankful to Barbara! ...As was I! :) She was a wonderful person!

Judy Helterbrand

August 26, 2010

Zoltanski Family,our sympathy and prayers to all for your loss. My Aunt Millie has always told me wonderful, loving things about her sister Barbara. She will be missed but remembered by many.

Sr. Anne Mary Molyet

August 25, 2010

As a Sister of Notre Dame and distant relative of Barbara, I extend my heartfelt sympathy to Ed and the family. Be assured of my prayerful support.

August 25, 2010

Zoltanski Family, Barbara was a very special lady. We purchased a duplex from her 15 years ago, and she was so helpful and gracious. We became friends through that. We were blessed to have known her. So sorry for your loss.
Rev. David & Mary Rison

Louise Arman

August 25, 2010

Barb was a wonderful God loving person. I had the privlage and fun of having Barb work with me for the St.John's H.S. Christmas Bazaar, making all those beautiful Christmas swags made of pine cuttings in our basement in the late 70's. She was so creative. Many loving memories. She'll always be in my prayers.

Alex Dominique

August 24, 2010

Ed, Pete, and the Zoltanski Family. Please accept my condolences and know that Barbara is in a better place. Barbara always invited me in to stay, especially when I needed it the most. She essentially acted as my functional God-Mother growing up and for that I will always remember her with gratitude.

Alex

An Exquisite Rose for Barbara

Luana Webb

August 24, 2010

Mr. Zoltanski and family, please accept my tears of joy, for you have had an extraordinary life with an amazing woman who has now passed into her next adventure.

Your daughter Cecilia has taken interest in me as her dear friend. Knowing that she is much like her mother, I am honored and blessed to know and love such a woman of grace and dignity.

My deepest gratitude and love are with you and your entire family in this precious time.

Warmly,

Melvin Cooks

August 24, 2010

Dear Mr Zoltanski and family,
My deepest sympathy and love goes out to each and everyone.I will miss Mrs Zoltanski very much.God bless you always.

Love
Melvin Cooks

Laura

August 24, 2010

Dear Pete, and Zoltanski family,
Cherish and share your memories of your Mom. She will be in your hearts forever. So sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Achara Suksamran

August 24, 2010

Dear Pete, and Zoltanski family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You have my deepest sympathy.
You're in my thought.

Steve and Mary Pero

August 23, 2010

Ed, Joan and Family,
Our prayers are with you and your famiy. Barbara was such a gracious woman who always made us feel welcome. We know she will be missed. She raised a wonderful family.

August 23, 2010

To Helen and family,
very sorry for your loss - you are in my prayers.

Scott Decker

Robert M. Baird

August 23, 2010

Monica and Family
My deepest sympathy for the passing of such a wonderful woman.

Susan Cole

August 23, 2010

Dear Mr. Zoltanski and family,
On behalf of our entire family, I would like to send our sincere sympathy for the loss of Mrs. Zoltanski. My personal earliest memory of Barbara was her welcoming us to your lovely home over the Christmas holiday. I remember walking into your home and smelling the freshly cut pine off of your property which was most impressive; second to the hospitality Barbara gave us. Her kindness continued over the years. She sent me several letters of encouragement early in my adult life while I was serving in the US Navy which helped me get through challenges. Barbara will be missed by our entire family, especially our mother, Adele.

August 23, 2010

My sympathy to the family. When a person lives such a Christian example, it brings peace and comfort with their passing to eternal life. Years ago,I worked with the traveling statue of Fatima which visited the Zoltanski home and was truly moved by their example. They were a unique and wonderful family.
Marge (Landowski) Wagner

August 23, 2010

Dear Joan, Helen, Monica and Family, I wanted to let you know how sorry I was to hear that your mother passed away. You and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers. No matter their age or condition, I know that it's difficult to lose a parent. Surely though, she died comforted by the fact that she raised such a fine family. I hope good memories of her bring you peace. Ngat Awass (Clayton, NC)

Peter Pantuso

August 23, 2010

Helen and Family - Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Your faith in God, and your faith and love of each other will help your hearts heal as you find peace in the days and months ahead.

Marita Morrissey Schneider

August 23, 2010

Joan and family -

Clearly your mother's life was an example of one of my favorite quotes: Preach the gospel at all times -- If necessary, use words -- St. Francis of Assisi.

Her greatness and her goodness lives on in all who were loved by her.

Marita Morrissey Schneider

Monica Webster

August 23, 2010

To Ed and Family:
I was a legal secretary for a short time at Ed's office. It was a pleasure getting to know both of you. God bless Barbara and may she rest in peace.

Ed & Connie Frankart Gross

August 23, 2010

To Ed and Family - on behalf of my mother Ann Frankart (sister-in-law of your sister-in-law Millie) and family, please accept our deepest sympathy. May God Bless all of you and may each day be a better one as you hold memories of Barbara in your hearts. God Bless you, your family and your extended families.

Chip Gibbs

August 23, 2010

Monica, my sincerest condolences to you an your family. What a beautiful tribute. God is with you and your family and your mother is with God. I know that you all find peace in that.

Theresa Lewandowski-Reed

August 23, 2010

Dear Joan and family,
So sorry for your loss.

DyAnn Smoot

August 22, 2010

Dear Monica and family,
What a beautiful tribute to your wonderful mother. Her life works and heritage are of great value. May our Lord bring peace and solace to your hearts as you honor her and celebrate her life and works. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Judy Hoffbauer Hall

August 22, 2010

Barbara was a lady who exemplified grace. She always encouraged the work in which I was involved and was a positive force in the midst of our world. Her family honors her vision and faith through their examples of service. My condolences to Ed, whom I treasure as well, and the sons and daughters with whom I humbly share a legacy.
Love,
Your cousin, Judy Hoffbauer Hall

Patti/Delano Walker

August 22, 2010

Barbara..this is Patti..I know you are with our Lord and Saviour..Jesus..I had the priviledge and honor of knowing you and I cannot tell you how deep we
feel this loss..We know that you are in the hands of God but its just very sad
not having you here and receiving your faithful notes of encouragement. You
brought absolute joy to our family and I love you very much and will meet
you in heaven. I met a saint...you...thank you..Patti and Delano Walker

Barbara & Rusty (Feck) Van Newhouse

August 22, 2010

Mr. Zoltanksi and family,
I am very sorry. Your Wife and Mother touched so many lives, including mine. She always wore such a beautiful smile and really made everyone feel very special. She has touched each and everyone with the gift of God in her encounters. May God, Jesus, The Holy Spirit, Our Lady, St. Joseph, all the angels console you. I am sure heaven is singing her presence.

August 22, 2010

What a wonderful tribute to a great lady, we are sorry that we were never able to meet her in person. Our thoughts are with Monica and her family.
Lee, Linda and Angie

Stewart Aron

August 22, 2010

Ed,

So sorry for your loss.

Stewart

Kim B

August 22, 2010

Mr. Zoltanski and family,

You have my deepest sympathy. She was loved by so many and will never be forgotten. My grandma and her were such dear friends and you guys were like extra grandparents when I was a kid. I bet her and my grandma (Mary Wagener)are living having a wonderful time together right now.

May she rest in peace,
Kim Barboza

Edward Kime

August 22, 2010

To the Zoltanski family all,

God Bless you and may God be with you now and in the future. She was a dear friend of my family over the years. I know that she will be missed.

Kami Zoltanski

August 22, 2010

I will forever remember your kindness and generosity to me and my family. May God bring peace and comfort to your loved ones during this time of loss.

Annette Buck

August 22, 2010

Rest in peace dear faithful servant and Godmother.

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