Vincent Ziniewicz

Vincent Raymond Ziniewicz passed away on January 2, 2026, at Garnet Health Medical Center. He was 81 years old.

Vincent was born on June 27, 1944, in Ashland, Pennsylvania, and was the son of the late Ruth Freed. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam war before beginning a lifelong career in education and service to others.

Vincent started his professional career as a physical education teacher at Tri-Valley Central School, where he also coached football and basketball. He later became the Recreational Supervisor at Woodbourne Correctional Facility. Even after retiring, Vincent's love for teaching never faded, and he returned to education as a substitute teacher in the Ellenville School District. He truly loved working with children and took great pride in encouraging and motivating them to follow their dreams.

An avid reader and lifelong advocate of staying physically active, Vincent enjoyed running, swimming, golfing, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. Even during the winter months, he could often be found bundled up in blankets outside, enjoying the fresh air with his daughter's dog, Olympia, faithfully by his side. He also enjoyed building and landscaping his beautiful property in the woods. He often would call it the Ziniewicz resort. He had a special fondness for cars-especially BMWs. Over the years, he owned several vehicles, each one telling a story of a different chapter in his life.

Vincent loved camping, biking and hiking particularly when his daughter was younger. As his family grew, he cherished spending time with his grandchildren and traveling with his beloved wife. He enjoyed the aspects of cruising, whether watching the waves, exploring new destinations, or simply sharing the experience together. Among his favorite travels were visits to the Panama Canal, Hawaii and Alaska. His absolute favorite destination was visiting his daughter and family in Methuen,Massachusetts. He loved spending time in their backyard oasis complete with a pool for swimming laps.

Spiritual by nature, Vincent found comfort in journaling and reflection. He was adventurous, family-oriented, and known for his fun-loving and determined personality. One of his favorite sayings was, "Never quit, never give up on your dreams." That philosophy guided his life and inspired those around him.

Vincent will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 54 years, Rosey Ziniewicz; his daughter, Melanie Ricupero, and her husband, Ben; his cherished granddaughters, Isabella and Grace Ricupero; his sister, Linda Levine, and her husband, Alan; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers- and sisters-in-law, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, 396 State Route 52, Woodbourne, New York. A Funeral Mass will follow at 12:30 p.m. at the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Interment will take place at Grahamsville Rural Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Vincent's name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Wounded Warrior Project, or any veterans organization of your choice.

Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Family Funeral Home. For further information, please call 845-434-7363 or visit their website.