Rev. Bernard (Bernie) James Zanck Jr. died on April 13, 2021 in Clermont, Florida.  He was 93. Bernard was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 28, 1928 to parents Bernard and Viola Zanck. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Ginnie Arjona Zanck and their sons, Bernie James Zanck III, Husband Chris Dayss, and Stephen Michael Zanck. He is also survived by sisters Loretta Swieca, and Rita Zanck.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Leonard, Chester, Edward, George Zanck, and sister Emily Schluge.

Bernie had a deep calling to become a priest. He accepted the opportunity to begin preparation as a freshman and attended high school from 1942-1946 with the Claretian Fathers at St. Jude Seminary, in Momence, Illinois. After receiving his diploma, he traveled to Los Angeles, CA. where he spent a year as a novice of the order. Upon completing that year of religious training, he was transferred to the school of philosophy in Compton, CA. In June 1951 he completed his college work and received his bachelor's degree from Loyola University of California.  Theological training followed at the Catholic University of America where he earned his Licentiate in Sacred Theology in 1955.

Bernie achieved his dream and was ordained a Catholic priest in 1955. He was honored and incredibly pleased to bless his nieces and nephews through baptism, first communion, conformation, and marriage. This was so incredibly special to him to be surrounded by his family. Bernie was a much-loved Uncle to dozens of nieces and nephews over several generations.

Before Bernie's, many activities with the Claretians Order would begin, he enjoyed being active in sports and practical work projects such as house painting, carpentry, masonry, and farming. His first official appointment was that of Treasurer of an institution in Terre Haute, Indiana. It was a training center for Novices and college students where he taught English and Civics.

In 1958 Fr. Bernie was given an administrative job of designing and building a summer camp for boys. This project grew to sizable proportions with the tremendous community support that it was given. Many of his nephews and nieces would visit this site and showed their pride in what their uncle had built.

His life was now full of duties such as, treasurer, training novices, teaching college students English, Latin, and Civics, and completing duties at the house of studies in Washington, DC.

In 1967 he decided to further his studies for a MA degree. The Claretians Order sent him to San Jose, CA and gave him the position of a diocesan priest. Bernard attended classes at the Santa Clara University and earned his master's degree in counseling and education. While attending classes Bernie met another full-time student at the university, Ginnie Arjona. They studied together, graduated together, and fell in love. They were hired to work together in Stockton, CA;  Bernie as a high school counselor, Ginnie as an elementary and special education teacher. In 1969 they got married in a Civil Ceremony in Reno, Nevada.  When Bernie's dispensation arrived from the Pope, they had a second ceremony, this time witnessed by a Franciscan Priest and their family and friends presents. Their lives were now complete in the eyes of the church.  Life was enjoyable and fulfilling.

They lived in Stockton, raised two sons, and invited grandmother, Olga Arjona to move in with them. Bernie loved to cook for the family and loved doing gardening and carpentry. He even found time to open a franchise, Mac Farlands Candy and Ice cream store.  After that, he discovered his talent for selling new homes.  He loved watching his sons develop into mature, talented young men. They were a source of lifelong pride. Son Bernie James followed his parent's footsteps by getting his bachelor's degree at the Santa Clara University.

It is with great sadness that the family announces Fr. Bernie's passing after his courageous battle with dementia.  He will be deeply missed, and we are glad he is finally home with the lord.  God bless Fr. Bernie, and may he rest in peace forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Santa Clara University Student Emergency Assistance Fund can be made in Bernard's name at https://mysantaclara.scu.edu/givenow