YOUNGSTOWN - William D. Zemko, 78, of the city's west side, passed away peacefully, Friday evening, July 5, 2024, at Hampton Woods in Poland following a courageous struggle with cancer.

William was born April 3, 1946, in Youngstown, a son of the late John Zemko and Catherine Lapushansky Zemko, and was a lifelong area resident.

He was a 1965 graduate of South High School and at the age of 19 Bill began his career at Youngstown Sheet and Tube Co. Campbell Works where he worked until the mill closed in 1977. Bill then went to work for Arcelor Mittal for many years, where he was affectionately known as "Z Man" before retiring in 2021. An electrician by trade, Bill also taught electrician courses at the Mahoning County Vocational School during his career.

Mr. Zemko was a member of Ss. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Youngstown and was very proud of his Ukrainian heritage.

Bill enjoyed gardening, going to breakfast with fellow retirees and he especially enjoyed spending quality time with his family.

He will always be remembered by family and friends as the "unofficial Youngstown Historian;" as Bill enjoyed learning historical facts about the city of Youngstown, Mill Creek Park and other local points of interest. He also enjoyed collecting post cards that portrayed Youngstown landmarks both past and present.

Bill is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ruth Damore Zemko, whom he married October 23, 1965; his two daughters, Karen Ray of Youngstown and Christine (Robert) Gerst of Canfield; four grandchildren, Kaylee Ray, Alyssa Ray, Lillian Gerst and Robert Gerst III; his sister-in-law, Terry Zemko of Niles; several nieces and nephews and extended family members including his cousin, Michael Zemko, who was very close to Bill and many, many friends.

A son, William D. "Billy" Zemko, a brother, John Zemko, Jr., and a son in law, Terry Ray preceded William in death.

Family and friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown, where a funeral service will take place at 6 p.m.

Private interment will take place on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Lake Park Cemetery.

Bill's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Expand Health at Home, Hampton Woods and Sanctuary Hospice for their kindness and compassionate care given to Bill and his family.