BAYFIELD, Colo. — Thomas Joseph Zink, 81 of Bayfield, Colo. born Oct. 31, 1941 (Halloween night) during a snowstorm in Great Bend, Kan., passed away at home surrounded by his family after a brief battle with cancer, on May 9th, 2023.
Tom grew up in Claflin, Kan. amongst the wheat and baseball fields. He married his wife Mary Lou on Aug. 17, 1963. In 1984 they moved to Durango, Colo. where Tom owned the Donut Stop for many years and created delectable doughnuts. Before retiring, Tom proudly worked alongside his son, Patrick, building cabinetry with precision and skill.
Tom had two great loves in his life, and he was completely devoted and faithful to both: Mary Lou (Liebl) wife of 59 years and his faith, being a Catholic all his days as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus for 63 years. He was blessed with a large family which brought him joy while cheering on his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids from the sidelines. He and Mary Lou enjoyed cheering on KU basketball, Notre Dame football, and the Dodgers. And of course, trying their luck at the casino.
Above all Tom would pray for his family on his knees with rosary in hand. He will be remembered for his quick wit, pinochle skills, enjoyment of sports, and devotion to family and his faith.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Evelyn Zink; daughter Kelly Phelps; and son Patrick Zink; as well as three sisters and two brothers. He is survived by his wife Mary Lou Zink; daughters Kristi Phelps (Rick), Nancy Phelps (Trent), Theresa Surprenant (Evan), Andrea Queen, all of Bayfield, Anne Utterback (Scott) of Austin Texas; and son, Mike Zink of Blythe, Calif.; 13 grandsons; four granddaughters; 12 great grandchildren with one on the way; four sisters; four brothers; and a plethora of nieces and nephews.
Services will be held on Monday May 15, 2023. There will be a rosary at 9 a.m. with mass at 10 a.m. at St. Barts Catholic church in Bayfield Colo. Burial to follow at Pine River Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please donate to a Pro Life charity of your choice.
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, May 13, 2023
