Shrewsbury – Robert F. “Bobby” Zona, 60, lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, died Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2011 after a short illness. In 2009, he lost his best friend and devoted wife of 13 years, Mary McInerney-Zona.
He leaves two adoring children, Dillon J. and Keeley M. Zona; his loving parents, John and Florence (Seaver) Zona of Shrewsbury; a sister-in-law, Karen Zona and her children, John and Matthew; his father- and mother-in- law, John and Bridget (McCarthy) McInerney of Worcester; his brother-in-law, Sean McInerney of Worcester; his sister-in-laws, Ann McInerney of West Boylston and Clare Gentilucci and her husband Steve of Worcester; and many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and wonderful friends. He was predeceased by his only brother, John A. Zona.
Born in Worcester and raised in Shrewsbury, he graduated from Shrewsbury High School, where he excelled in sports, including baseball, basketball and football. His outstanding athletic accomplishments led to his induction as a charter member of the Shrewsbury High School Athletic Hall of Fame.
Mr. Zona worked for the town of Shrewsbury Parks and Recreation Department for 40 years, retiring just this past summer.
He cherished his time with his family and friends, especially when he was entertaining them at his home, known as “Easy Street” or the “Rosedale Cafe,” a place where everyone was made comfortable and welcome. As an avid sports fan, he enjoyed cheering on all of the New England sports teams.
Mr. Zona enjoyed attending sporting events, Irish step-dancing festivals, and vacations to the beach. He was a fun-loving family man, who many were fortunate to call a friend.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Sunday, Nov. 27, from 2 to 6 p.m. in the Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, 648 Main St., Shrewsbury. His funeral will be held Monday, Nov. 28 from the funeral home, with a funeral Mass celebrating his life at 10 a.m. in Saint Anne's Church, 130 Boston Tpke., Shrewsbury. Burial will follow in Mountain View Cemetery of Shrewsbury.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Zona Children's Fund, c/o Shrewsbury Credit Union, 615 Main St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
To leave a note of condolence for the family or to view Mr. Zona's Book of Memories, visit www.brittonfuneralhomes.com.
