Joseph "Chick" Zelenski, 103, of Meriden, passed away at home in his sleep on Wednesday, November 22. He was born on October 11th 1920 in Southampton, New York to Stanley and Antonina Zelenski. He served in the coast guard on a destroyer escort in the South Pacific during WW2. After the war he moved to Meriden, married his wife Helen and raised three children. Joseph began work as a golf caddy when he was nine years old, inspiring a life-long love of golf which he enjoyed playing well into his 80s. He was employed by the International Silver Company until age 65 and later by Unholtz Dickie until age 90.

Joseph was predeceased by his wife Helen, daughter Christine Dipersio, (Richard), brother Vincent, and sisters, Helen Moszcynski and Virginia Skelly. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his sister Estelle Futoma, daughter Lorrie Zelenski, son Paul (Celia) Zelenski, grandchildren Jessica Zelenski (Alex Sinclair), Kevin Zelenski (Claudine), Paul Vincent Zelenski (Claudia), and great grandchildren Faith Zelenski and Amia Sutherland.

The family wishes to thank the Franciscan Home Hospice for easing his passing especially his puzzle buddy Mary Pardee and health aide Irma Dominguez.

A celebration of Joseph's long life well lived will be held on a future date.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Meriden Memorial Funeral Home, 450 Broad St., For online condolences visit: www.meridenmemorialfh.com