Robert Michael Zacary Sr.'s Obituary
Robert (Bob) Michael Zacary Sr., at the age of 90, entered eternal rest peacefully on Monday morning, November 27, 2023, at his family home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Chester, Philadelphia on April 18, 1933, to Alice Zacary Dillard.
He is survived by his adoring children Robert Michael Zacary Jr., (Tammy), Christine Zacary Wood, and Eileen Zacary Tillery (Jeff). Robert was the proud grandfather of Brittany Zacary Bailey (Ryan), Cameron Wood (Becky), Samantha Tillery Powell (John Banks), Robert Michael Zacary III (Brianna), Sean Tillery (Ali), and Madelyn Tillery, and great grandfather of Luke Bailey, Reagan Bailey, Theo Bailey, and Maeve Powell. He was a caring sibling of John (Jack) Dillard and Connie Dillard. Bob will be dearly missed by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, wonderful lifelong friends, especially his companion of nine years, Mich Mele, and his beloved dog, Gypsy.
Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife of 57 years Helen Marie Leonard Zacary, his mother Alice Zacary Dillard, grandparents Peter Zacary and Anna Zacary.
A native of Chester, Pennsylvania, and proud resident of Mandeville, Louisiana for over 30 years, Bob graduated from Chester High School, in Chester, Pennsylvania. While in high school, he discovered his love of drafting and engineering design as an apprentice draftsman. After graduating from high school, Bob proudly joined the United States Army and served in the Korean War. He began his professional career as a draftsman and later an engineer for Scott Paper Company in Pennsylvania. In 1973, Bob and his family moved to Metairie, Louisiana to become Vice President of Sales for Nadustco in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1982, he founded and was President and Owner of Air Systems Design, Inc. In addition, he founded and co-owned Air Systems Fabrication, Inc. and Air Systems Installation, Inc. As an entrepreneur, he excelled and succeeded in his field of expertise. Bob was a devoted member to Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church.
Bob was loving, compassionate, and most of all a very caring person to all. He enjoyed being a member of Beau Chene Country Club and playing golf. In addition, he belonged to three bowling leagues. He was an excellent ping pong and billiards player. He was truly captivating on the dance floor. However, his true passion was spending time with his loving family and friends. Bob was unique and irreplaceable, well respected and liked, and will be deeply and dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. His jovial spirit and tender nature will remain in the many memories of his cherished friends and family until they meet him again.
The Zacary family expresses their deepest gratitude to his exceptional around the clock caregivers Quan and Vickey.
In lieu of flowers kindly consider, memorial contributions in memory of Robert Michael Zacary Sr., to The American Cancer Society, PO Box 83930, Baton Rouge, LA 70884, 800-227-2345; https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate.html.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Catholic Mass, at Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 1501 W. Approach, Mandeville, Louisiana 70471, on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 12:00 PM with visitation beginning at 11:00 AM until service time. Interment will take place privately at a later time.
E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, locally owned and operated, (985) 892-9222, has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.
The Zacary family kindly invites you to share thoughts, fondest memories, and condolences online at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home Guest Book at www.ejfieldingfh.com.
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