William Zinn Obituary

William "Bill" Zinn

November 16, 1951 - June 13, 2025

Richland, Washington - William (Bill) Garfield Zinn, born on November 16, 1951, in Richland, Washington, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025. After a long battle with Alzheimer's, he spent his last moments with his children by his side. A proud father, grandfather, and friend to many, he brought a smile to all who crossed his path.

Bill cherished the time spent with his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Helen Foster, and was a great father to his two children, Andrew Zinn and Adriane Brown. Later in life, he enjoyed time with his four grandchildren, Jackson Zinn, Foster Zinn, Cyndal Brown, and Nolan Brown. A proud graduate of Richland High School (formerly known as Columbia High School) class of 1970, Bill was a talented photographer and the co-owner of Zinn Photography with his father Jack. Bill's outgoing and friendly nature made him a cherished member of his community. He served as president of the local Kiwanis Club, was a member the Richland High School Bomber Boosters, and participated in Rotary with his father.

Throughout his life, he embraced his passions with enthusiasm, from boating on the Columbia River, hunting with his beloved labradors, to riding dirt bikes in the Cascade mountains. A music lover, he could often be found enjoying the tunes of Jimmy Buffett, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan, or sharing laughter and stories with friends at the Uptown Tavern over a game of pool. He created countless memories with family and friends while camping at Priest Lake Idaho. His children remember how they couldn't go anywhere in the Tri-Cities without Bill running into a friend and chatting them up for way too long. Everyone who knew him has a good "Bill Zinn story" to tell.

He is preceded in death by his father, Jack Darrel Zinn, and mother, Gloria Garfield Zinn. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, and sister, Jackie Hooper.

An informal celebration of life for Bill will be taking place on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at Einan's at Sunset Memorial Gardens. All are welcome to stop by and share some memories. His legacy will continue through the lives he touched, and he will be remembered fondly for his kindness, humor, and zest for life.