Nancy Jo Zinn

Nancy Jo Zinn, 65, of Hopedale, passed away Sunday, August 9, 2026 at my home.

I was born Nancy Jo Fiala on February 4, 1961.  My parents, along with many other family members have gone before me, including my angel baby grandson, Jaxson and most recently my sweet Aunt Gert.

I am survived by my loving husband and best friend of 30 years, Jeff Zinn, also my son’s father, John (Belinda) Knecht.

Jeff was my primary caregiver, and I couldn’t have asked for a better person.  His strength and resilience were endless.  We were lucky to have such amazing love and relationship. I am survived by my son, Brian (Katie) Knecht of Aurora, CO; my stepson, Blake (Angie) Zinn of Lockport and grandsons, Evan and Cole; and my stepson, Ryker (Shelby) Zinn of Danvers and grandsons, Jace and Tyson.  I am proud of the men our three sons have become.

I am also survived by my sister, Coni (Mike) Novotny of Berwyn and my brother, Doug (Gina) Fiala of Willowbrook; and all of their children and grandchildren making up my nieces and nephews.

I was fortunate to grow up in Brookfield where I attended Gross School and Riverside Brookfield High School, graduating in 1979. I attended Illinois State University and Boise State University.  I graduated from ISU with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1984. I held many job positions over my lifetime, including teaching, building cars at Mitsubishi, banking, but most memorable was the 11 years I spent as a Manager at Culver’s in Morton.

I feel fortunate to have had many close friends to help me through the end of my life, my little Cavapoo, Suzi, who has stayed by my side, endlessly, these las two years.  Those I especially want to thank are Carla St Clair Hodgson and her daughter, Lydia.  We affectionately refer to them as our non-biological daughter and granddaughter.  I want to thank Ben and Christina Obecny for their love and support, and of course, rye bread.  I want to thank Patty Litwiller for always reaching out and checking in. 

All I ask of each of you, is to be kind to one another. You don’t have to agree with everyone, but kindness goes along way. I love you and thank you for being part of my life.

Cremation has been accorded.  A visitation will be on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Living Hope Community Church in Hopedale from 4 to 7 pm.  There will be no service.  Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Tremont is handling the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to Ruby’s Rescue and Retreat or any other animal advocacy group of your choice.

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