Joseph Theodore Zinda of Porter, Texas peacefully departed this life on September 2, 2022, at the age of 82 with Clara his wife of 56 years by his side. Joe was born on March 4, 1940, in Fond de Lac, Wisconsin, but grew up in Amarillo, Texas.
A person of great vision, integrity, compassion, and empathy who had a "soft touch" for anyone in distress. He always responded with respect for the individual and in a manner that allowed the recipient to maintain their dignity. Joe had a great compassion for love that went beyond family to the lives of so many people that he met in daily life. He was unpretentious and often spoke of how much he appreciated the support and guidance of his colleagues and freely gave credit to others.
He served in the U.S. Army as rank E5 sergeant, rising quickly through the ranks during his years of service. He was involved in the Green Berets as well as the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Joe taught each of us many life lessons including unwavering support, the love of family and friends, and how to always put others first. Our lives have been immeasurable touched by his love and kindness. We are blessed to have his wonderful (gracious) example to follow. Joe felt he was blessed to live in a kind and loving community where people care so deeply for each other.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents Philip and Catherine, by his seven brothers and three sisters, and by his beloved grandson Jacob Zinda. He is survived by his wife Clara Zinda; Sons Michael Zinda and wife Stephanie Zinda, Christopher Zinda and wife Tracie Zinda, Andrew Zinda and wife Lorre Zinda. And his three treasured grandchildren; Sidney Zinda, Nicholas Zinda, and Mikayla Zinda.
A visitation for Joe is planned for Friday, September 9, 2022, from 5 pm to 7 pm with the Rosary to follow at 7 pm. The visitation and Rosary will be held at Cook Walden Funeral Home on 6100 N. Lamar, Austin, Texas. The funeral service will be on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 10 am at St. Thomas More Catholic Church.
