John Paul Zils

John Paul Zils, 80, of Bristol, passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022 at UCONN Medical Center. He was born on October 19, 1941 in Bristol, son of the late Albert and Helen (Case) Zils.

John graduated from Bristol High School in 1959. After high school he served in the US Marine Corp from 1960 until 1963, where he was an expert rifleman. He was a member of the Bristol Fish and Game Club and the American Legion. John enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling and skeet shooting. His children and grandchildren were the apples of his eye. He was always imparting his wisdom and corny sayings. John also served as an auxiliary CT State Police Trooper for four years. Later he was a certified welder, tool and die maker and locksmith.

John is survived by his devoted and loving wife Patricia M. (Williams) Zils of 54 years; his three daughters all of Bristol Kelly Zils, Tracy Bielert and her husband Dan, Jodi Gagne and her husband Steve; his seven grandchildren Ashley Bielert, Hayley Drzewiecki, Morgan Bielert, Marisa Drzewiecki, Jalen Drzewiecki, Carson Gagne, Damon Gagne; his brother Albert Zils and his wife Donna and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours will be held at O’Brien Funeral Home, 24 Lincoln Ave., Bristol on Friday, January 21, 2022 from 5PM until 7PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 10AM at St Matthew Church, 120 Church Ave, Bristol. Friends and family are invited to the funeral home starting at 9AM. Entombment and military honors will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Bristol.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, https://fidelco.org

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