William Klinker Zabko

Born on June 27, 1943, at Greenfield Hospital in Greenfield, Massachusetts, Bill grew up in South Deerfield before eventually settling in Keene, New Hampshire, in the early 1970s. He proudly served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Kenneth D. Bailey (DDR-713) from 1962 to 1965, attaining the rank of Commissaryman Second Class.

Bill shared over 50 years of marriage with his wife, Geraldine “Geri” Zabko, who preceded him in death. Together, they raised their 2 sons, Matt and Jon, and built a life in Keene. Among their favorite family traditions were annual vacations to Camp Ellis Beach in Maine, where Bill enjoyed riding his bike, fishing for striped bass, and spending time by the ocean. These trips became cherished memories for the entire family. Geri’s passing was a profound loss for Bill, and he missed her dearly in the years that followed.

Throughout his life, Bill worked as a meat cutter, spending many years with local businesses including O.K. Fairbanks, Wilbur Brothers, and Paul’s Choice, among others. It was a trade he knew well, and one that carried over into his personal life, particularly during hunting season.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Bill was an avid hunter and passionate bass fisherman who was happiest spending time in the woods or out on the water. In his younger years, he competed in archery with the North Branch Bowmen and was a longtime member of the Cheshire County Bassmasters Fishing Club, where he developed friendships that would last a lifetime. Each year, he looked forward to the club’s trip to Lake Champlain for the LCI Father’s Day Derby, where he once earned a prize winning finish.

Those same friendships extended well beyond the water. Every fall, Bill could be found cutting deer for his friends, many of whom were the same guys he spent his summers fishing alongside. As the years went by, those friendships continued, although the gatherings eventually involved a little less fishing and hunting, and a little more sitting around telling stories and drinking moonshine.

Bill’s love of the outdoors was something he passed along to his sons, Matt and Jon. From hunting and fishing to the many practical skills he taught them along the way, he shared a lifetime of knowledge and experiences that they would carry into their own lives.

Bill also loved to cook, enjoyed good company, and had a personality that was hard to forget. Known to most as Bill, and occasionally as Willy, much to his disapproval, he was a man of strong convictions and a sharp sense of humor. While many knew his tough exterior, those closest to him knew there was a much softer side beneath it.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Geri; his parents, John and Marj Zabko; and his brother, Jack.

He is survived by his son Matt and daughter in law Steph; his grandsons Caleb and his fiancée Bella, Dylan, and Elijah; and his son Jon and Jon’s dog, Mattis. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, to whom he was affectionately known as Uncle Bill, along with many lifelong friends. And Tango, the cat he never wanted but loved dearly.

Bill leaves behind a lifetime of stories, friendships, and traditions that will live on through those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed by his family and the many friends who shared his adventures along the way.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

And as Bill himself would often say, “Gone Fishin’!”