1938-2026
Waneta Lou Zizak, Aug. 26 1938 – May 18, 2026, age 87, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, creativity, and devotion to family.
A beloved wife, mother, grandmother of eight, and great-grandmother of ten, Waneta dedicated most of her life to caring for her family and creating a warm, welcoming home. Waneta found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved walking around town, gardening, crafting, and sewing, often creating handmade dresses, baby doll cradles, holiday decorations, and treasured keepsakes for those she loved. She also loved baking and was especially known for her delicious nut and poppyseed rolls, lovingly made each Easter and eagerly anticipated by family. In her later years, she discovered a passion for oil painting and she will live on through her art hanging in her family and friends’ homes.
Known for her gentle spirit and kind heart, Waneta was loved by all who knew her. She especially cherished annual Christmas shopping trips with her sister, daughters, and granddaughters, and for many years lovingly hosted family Christmas dinners, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. A devoted partner to her husband, John, she was always by his side helping with home maintenance and improvement projects, adding her signature touch through colorful and welcoming home décor.
Waneta was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Bruce Zizak; her son, John Allen Zizak; and her grandson, Brett Leon Davis.
She is survived by her daughters, Mary Alice Rebuck Harmon and Madelyn Davis Persing and husband Larry of Punxsutawney; grandchildren Jonna Zizak of Chicago; Clint Davis and wife Angie of Punxsutawney; Valerie Zizak-Morias and husband Will of American Canyon, CA. Keri Cimarolli and husband Rob of Bakersfield, CA; Kimberly Feighner and husband John of Edinboro; Kyle Rebuck of Punxsutawney; and Kelsey Strouse of Pittsburgh; along with ten cherished great-grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends.
Waneta will be remembered for her gentle soul, helping hands, artistic spirit, and the love she so generously shared with family and friends. At Waneta’s request there will be no funeral visitation. A family memorial will take place at a later date.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Fait - d’Argy Funeral Home, 117 N Jefferson Street, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. Online condolences and other information may be found by visiting www.dargyfh.com
