Ann M. Zelinski

Ann M. Zelinski, age 65, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family, on July 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Ann was born in Manitowoc on November 18, 1960, to her parents James and Dolores (Ozga) Rezba. She attended Holy Innocents Catholic School and then graduated from Roncalli High School in 1979. Ann then graduated from Lakeshore Technical College in June of 1981. The Dispensing Optician program there started her optical career. In November 1981, Ann married Michael Zelinski at Holy Innocents Catholic Church. After starting out at Kindy Optical, she worked at Saflo as a Sales Representative. Most recently she was a Brand Specialist at Essilor. Ann loved spending time creating gardens at her home with her husband. She was a proud participant of the Manitowoc County Master Gardeners Garden Walk. Ann had an enduring love for her Labrador companions Jake, Elwood, Leinie, Mikki, Jada, Willie, and Iris. Ann will be remembered as a welcoming hostess who never let a guest leave hungry. She enjoyed creating a beautiful home with her fabulous eye for antiques and tasteful decor, and was so proud of her brand new, updated kitchen. Always easy to talk to, Ann had a great sense of humor. Above all, Ann will be remembered for her beautiful, warm smile.

Ann is survived by her beloved husband Mike and their devoted canine companion Iris; brother Jim Rezba; siblings-in-law Donald (Sue) Zelinski, Charles (Tammy) Zelinski, Patricia (Mike) Morley, Mary (Jeff) Phillips, Nanci (Joel) Steber; nieces; nephews; a great niece; a great nephew; as well as other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents James and Dolores Rezba, parents-in-law Norbert and Eunice Zelinski, and other relatives and friends.

Cremation has occurred at Harrigan Parkside Crematory Chapel. Relatives and friends may greet the family at Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, 628 N. Water St., Manitowoc, on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow at Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center, just to the south of the funeral home. Private committal of the urn will be held at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ann’s name are appreciated to the Lakeshore Humane Society.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the staff at the Bellin Cancer Center, Bellin Hospital, and Shayna and all the other caregivers at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice that provided care and comfort for Ann.