Zigmund Mark Buczek
February 6, 1950 ~ September 23, 2023
Born in: Franklin, Pennsylvania
Zigmund M. "Ziggy" Buczek, 73, of Franklin passed away on September 23, 2023 at UPMC Hamot with his family by his side. He was born on February 6, 1950, the son of the late Zigmund S. and Victoria (Szostak) Buczek.
He was a 1968 graduate of Venango Catholic High School. He married the love of his life, the former Diane Shoff, on March 9, 1974. She survives and will miss her husband dearly.
In February 1969, Ziggy joined the U.S. Navy and served as a Petty Officer in the Vietnam War on the "gun line" along the coastal waterways and the Mekong Delta on Harassment and Interdiction Ops. On May 9, 1972, he was involved in the mining of Haiphong Harbor (Operation Pocket Money). The Operation earned the Meritorious Unit Commendation. Also for the service of his country, he earned the Combat Action Medal, The Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with two clusters: The Vietnam Service Ribbon, National Defense Ribbon, and the Navy E. Gunnery Ribbon. He was a member of the Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club and the Brown Water Navy. He was honorably discharged from active duty in December of 1973.
He worked a few jobs, most notably J&L Steel and Polk Center from which he retired. Zig was a Steeler and Pirate's fan, and an old school NASCAR fan. He was a dyed in the wool Democrat who would argue policy with anyone.
Zig was a lifetime member of the VFW Jesse Greer Post #1835 and the Franklin Fraternal Order of Eagles #328.
Most of all, Zig loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Diane; his daughters, Brandy Hall (Aaron) and Kelly Buczek (Scott Rice); grandchildren Jonah and Brooklynn; his sister, Doris Wilson (Ken); his cousin, Ann Sehman; his puppy, Vinny; as well as many loving cousins.
As per Zig's wishes, there will be no public visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at 11am at St. Patrick's Church, 949 Liberty St., Franklin, PA 16323, with Father Robert Manning of St. Columbkille Church in Stoneboro, PA officiating.
Zig will be laid to rest in St. Patrick Cemetery. Interment will be private for the family.
Military honors will be accorded by the V.E.T.S. Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions, if desired, can be made to: Disabled American Veterans Tri-County, 1 Dale Ave., Franklin, PA 16323, St. Patrick's Food Pantry, 949 Liberty St., Franklin, PA 16323, or the Venango County Humane Society, 286 S. Main St., Seneca, PA 16346.
Please take a moment to share a memory or condolence with the family on Zigmund's Book of Memories at www.WarrenFH.com.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Ziggy was”my” Custodian in Cottage A at Polk Center. He was a lot of of fun to work with but most of all he took pride in his work. It was a sad day when he moved on to another building but all good things must come to an end. My deepest sympathy to his Wife, Daughters, Grandchildren and the rest of his Family that shared their lives with him. Thanks for the memories Ziggy.
The pirates games will never be the same without Ziggy. RIP
I will forever remember ‘Ziggy'” on the pitching mound for our Elks Little League baseball team. When it was his turn to pitch we knew we had a chance to win. Those were the best times of our lives. “Ziggy” was a good sport then and remained one all the days I knew him. The family has my deepest sympathies and I want you to know how much I respected him. God bless you all.
“Ziggy’s” friend,
John Kurtich
I’ll always remember Zig for his Chevy Vega and Cat Steven’s. Rest in peace Zig. It was good knowing you.
Spent 12 years in school with Ziggy at St. Pats and VCHS. Also caddied with him at Wanango. So sad to hear about your loss. Ziggy and his family will be in our prayers
I’ll always remember Zig as being generous. I can still see him unexpectedly arrive at my parents in his pickup truck with a load of lumber and replacing the porch floor. Thanks again Zig!