John J. “Johnny” Zarro

Lima

John J. "Johnny" Zarro, 80, died at 1:51 a.m. May 15 at The Ohio State University Medical Center.

He was born Oct. 16, 1927, in Lima to Mike and Marie Sarnelli Zarro, who preceded him in death. On March 9, 1979, he married Barbara Wills Claypool, who survives in Lima.

Mr. Zarro retired as a car inspector from CSX Railroad after 40 years. Following his retirement, he was a courier for Bank One for 17 years. He was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church. He was a member of Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks Lodge 54, CIAO and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 370. He was a graduate of St. Rose High School, where he was a running back on the football team and was nicknamed "Twinkle Toes" and "Snake." He was offered several athletic scholarships, including one to the University of Dayton. He was an avid golfer and bowler. He loved life and people, which was exhibited by his volunteering with several activities and organizations. His wife was the love of his life.

Survivors also include four daughters, Cheryl Lynn Catania, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Adele Gorby, of Scottsdale, Ariz., Michelle "Shelley" (James) Stonehill, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Debra (John) Fisher, of Lima; a stepson, Rick Claypool, of Indianapolis; two stepdaughters, Christine (John) Poole, of Findlay, and Tracy (Dan) Cox, of Lima; and 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two sisters and three brothers.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Rose Catholic Church. The Rev. William J. Rose will officiate. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, where a parish wake service will be held at 8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rose Catholic Church.

Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.