Stephen B. Ziel's Obituary
Our Dad, Grandpa and Great-Grandpa, Stephen Ziel, returned to his heavenly father on January 27, 2016. He was born March 5, 1927, the son of Polish immigrants. At the age of 16, he joined the US Navy. He served aboard the USS Shangri-La and proudly wore his Shangri-La hat everywhere he went. On October 3, 1953 he married the love of his life, Patricia Nelson, fondly known as “Passion Flower”. They had two daughters, Patricia Chavez (late Richard) and Jo-Ann Durbin (Don). He was preceded in death in 2007. He is survived by his daughters, five grandsons, Michael, Brian, Shawn, Jason and Cody and one granddaughter, Stephanie, who was the apple of his eye. He is also survived by fifteen great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He sang Polish songs to all of them and instilled a sense of pride for our country. Our hearts are heavy but we are all happy to know you’ll be with your “passion flower”. A Funeral ceremony with US Navy Honors will be held 12:30PM, Monday, February 2, 2016 at Florida National Cemetery 6502 SW 102nd Avenue, Bushnell, FL 33513. He will be laid to rest with his beloved wife and passion flower, Patricia. Online condolences and memories may be shared on his tribute page at www.fortmyersmemorial.com . Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home is serving the family.
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