1st Lt. Henry Edward Zega

Henry was born in Torrington, Connecticut, on February 14, 1931.He married Joan Houska on October 30, 1954.

As a young man, Henry played the drums in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church Drum Corps and attended Torrington High School, where he lettered in football and track. He participated in the ROTC program at Fork Union Military Academy in Fork Union, Virginia, and later attended the University of Connecticut, where he played UCONN Huskies football. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1953. He went on to earn his master’s degree from the New Jersey Institute of Technology in 1960.

Henry honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean War as a First Lieutenant in the Ordnance Corps, serving with the 601st Ordnance Rebuild Battalion in France.

Following his military service, Henry continued his engineering career in New Jersey. He worked as a Product Manager at General Precision, Inc., and later served as Director of Engineering at Theta Instrument, Inc. After moving to Florida, he became Vice President of Larago Electric Mfrs., Inc.

Henry had a passion for bass fishing. He participated in fishing tournaments throughout the state of Florida with the Clearwater Bass Club. He was also a member and past president of the Lions Club in both New Jersey and Florida. In 1971, he established the LEO Club at Clearwater High School, where he shared his knowledge and taught young people the importance of leadership and experience.

Henry loved adventure and enjoyed family camping trips with his wife, Joan, and their three daughters, traveling across the United States. He and Joan also enjoyed traveling to many countries around the world. At home, Henry found great pleasure in growing roses, orchids, and a variety of vegetables in his backyard. He was also an avid football fan, especially of the UConn Huskies and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Henry is survived by his daughters, Linda Zega Stokke (Rod), Laura Zega Cummings (Richard), and Brenda Zega; his grandchildren, Gregory Cummings (Holly), Jessica Cummings, and Julia Cummings Paluch (Nathan); and his great-grandchildren, Chandler Cummings, Arabelle Cummings, Cam Cummings, and Brody Paluch.

Henry will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park, 2860 SUNSET POINT RD, CLEARWATER, FL 33759, US, on August 16, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm.

A Reception will follow at Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home, 2853 SUNSET POINT RD, CLEARWATER, FL 33759, US, on August 16, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.