Obituary of Thomas Joseph Zaccard

Thomas Joseph Zaccard, (Tom) age 69, passed away on April 16, 2024, in Florida. He was born in Highland, IL; the son of Raymond and Marguerite (Becker) Zaccard. Tom met Celia Warden while attending college at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. They were married on December 28, 1974, in Wausau, WI.  

Tom studied mechanical engineering and assembly automation and test systems at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He graduated from UW-Madison with a Bachelor of Science-Mechanical Engineering degree. In his career, he worked as a Test Director at Kaney Aerospace in Rockford, IL, a Senior Mechanical Engineer at Ingenium, Milwaukee, WI, a Senior Project Manager at Gilman Engineering and Manufacturing, Janesville-WI, and as an engineer at General Motors Chevy Engine Plant in Flint, MI. He was a co-founder of Warden and Sons Painting Contractors, Madison, WI. After his retirement, he started his own contracting business (TZaat) doing carpentry and home restorations for Warden and Sons.  

Tom was a member of St. John Vianney Roman Catholic Church in Janesville, WI. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and served as an usher at Sunday masses. He was a long-time member of the Blackhawk Curling Club in Janesville. Tom was a talented artist painting with acrylics and watercolors. He loved photography and everything about trains. He was an avid runner. He competed in many races and finished six marathons. He was passionate about boating, especially when cruising up and down the Mississippi River.  

When he retired, he was drawn to Florida. Tom and Celia became snowbirds and treasured their winter home in Heartland RV Resort, Haines City, FL. He was the Heartland RV Association President for four years. He was a member of the Florida Trail Association. He enjoyed kayaking the lakes and rivers of Florida, always looking for alligators. He took up e-biking and spent many happy hours on the bike trails. Most of all he loved and cherished the times spent with his four daughters and two granddaughters. Tom brightened every room with his smile, humor, and easy-going personality. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. We will miss him always. 

Tom is survived by his wife of 49 years, Celia Zaccard; four daughters: Colleen Zaccard, (Luke), Katherine Muschlewski, (Andy), Elizabeth Zaccard, (Naomi), and Rebecca Zaccard Gibson (Steve); two granddaughters, Guthrie, and Fiona; Siblings: Lynn Devito, Jane Elfers, Ray Zaccard (Linda). He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Pat Zaccard.  

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, May 6, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Nativity of Mary Catholic Church, in Janesville, Wisconsin. Visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Inurnment will be at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery.