Frederick W. Zielinski

A Life Well Lived

Frederick W. (Fred) Zielinski, age 92, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida. A longtime resident of Lakeland and a native of Springfield, Massachusetts, Fred lived a full and generous life surrounded by family and friends.
Fred proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1954 to 1957. Following his military service, he built a rewarding career as a purchasing agent for Bodolay Packaging Machinery Company in Lakeland, Florida, where he worked faithfully for many years until its closing.
Fred was known for his kind heart, gentle humor, and steady loyalty. He was a passionate Tampa Bay Lightning and Tampa Bay Rays fan, and he found great joy in gardening, traveling, and celebrating his proud Polish heritage.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents Joseph and Adele (Lazor) Zielinski and his sister Patricia (Zielinski) Bodolay. Fred’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.

Loving Family

Surviving Nephews and Nieces:
Michael Bodolay
Robert (Bob) Bodolay and Kerry Bodolay – Ryan, Eric, Hannah, Adam, and seven great-great nieces and nephews
Theresa (Terri) Bodolay Salas and Hernan Salas – Joseph, Raquel, Alex, and two great-great nieces
Lisa Bodolay Farkas and Drew Farkas – Annabelle and Eli
Cousins:
Marcia Pilot Grimaldi and Ray Grimaldi
Robert (Bob) Zielinski and Laurel Zielinski
Fred is also survived by numerous extended family members, who will cherish his memory always.

Funeral Mass

Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church
Lakeland, Florida

October 18, 2025
Officiant: Father Saji

Interment

Fred will be laid to rest at St. Aloysius Cemetery in Indian Orchard, Massachusetts on November 15, 2025, joining family members who went before him.

A Gentle Spirit Remembered

Fred was a sweet and kind man — humble, thoughtful, and always ready with a warm smile. He gave freely of his time and heart to those around him, and his legacy will endure in the love he shared and the lives he touched.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”

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