Joan Zika

In Loving Memory of Joan Zika

Joan Zika (Zampaglione), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025 at the age of 75. Joan was a parishioner of St. Theresa’s RC Church in Kenilworth. She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, quiet strength, and deep devotion to her family.  

Born on December 28, 1949, in Elizabeth, NJ ,

She worked as a secretary for many years for Dr. Sean Kaufman, D.P.M. in Kenilworth. Prior to that, she was Personnel supervisor in Union Hospital. She dedicated her life to caring for others, most especially her children, who were the heart of her world.  She poured her love into every meal she made, “Roni’s at Joanie’s”, every story told, and every moment she spent supporting, encouraging, and guiding her family.  She made her home a place of warmth, laughter, and open arms. 

Joan is survived by her husband of 48 years, Robert A. Zika, her daughters, Dana Zika and partner David Lucarello, Jacqueline Ritter and husband Matthew, her sons Jonathan Zika, Daniel Zika and wife Stacy, who will forever carry her love in their hearts.  She also leaves behind three grandsons Aiden Michael, Nathaniel Theodore, and Gabriel Robert and her sisters, Maryann Grady, Jane Zampaglione, and Susan Murray.  

Though she is no longer with us in person, the values she has instilled and the love she gave so freely will live on through them. Her strength in times of hardship, her gentle words in moments of need, and her unwavering belief in her family will be remembered always.  She was the kind of mother who showed up, who listened, who comforted, who stayed.  To be loved by her was to know true, steadfast love.  

Visitation will be held at Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake Funeral Home, 582 Springfield Ave., Westfield on Sunday, June 8, 2025 from 2 to 6 pm. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Theresa’s RC Church in Kenilworth on Monday, June 9, 2025 at 10:30 am. Entombment to follow at Fairview Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Kenilworth Fire Department & Rescue Squad. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.