Paul A. Zidek, age 54, beloved husband of Tammy (Smith), loving father of Olivia. Dearest son of Paul B. (deceased) and Nancy; brother of David (Darla), Theodore (Becky), and Maria Zidek-Dodge (Dave); son-in-law of David and Shirley Smith; brother-in-law of Debbie Ziccardi (Andrew); devoted uncle and friend.
Paul was a 1985 graduate of James Ford Rhodes High School and former employee of Victory Tube / Marmon Keystone LLC. An unapologetic Steelers fan and friend to all that crossed his path. He brought love and laughter into every room he entered. He courageously endured a fight for his life to continue touching those around him that would be difficult to explain in words.
Paul and Tammy Zidek would be married for 25 years in May. Throughout their time with one another there was never a dull moment. Tammy fell in love with the way Paul could always make her laugh even in hard times. Paul was a man of tradition enjoying vacationing at Myrtle Beach with family every year.
Paul and daughter Olivia were lucky enough to share the same birthday and enjoyed painting each other’s noses with icing each year. He enjoyed coaching daughter Olivia’s soccer team throughout her youth, never missing a game.
Many would find Paul in his garage working on his ‘65 mustang or enjoying the company of friends whom he called family every football Sunday. Whether he was frequenting the local ice cream parlor with family or reminiscing on his hunting days, Paul always had a smile on his face.
We are forever grateful to the family that donated their loved one’s organs that gifted us more time with him. We will always hold a special place in our hearts for the love and care provided from our Cleveland Clinic family and the transplant team.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Paul’s name to support The Breath of Life Fund at Cleveland Clinic’s Respiratory Institute. Gifts can be made online at give.ccf.org to support The Breath of Life Fund or checks made payable to Cleveland Clinic sent to: Cleveland Clinic Foundation, P.O. Box 931517, Cleveland, OH 44193-1655.
We kindly ask that you join us in Paul’s celebration of life at a later date. Due to Covid, we will no longer have it on January 8th.
Information will soon be sent out via mail and social media.
In Paul’s memory we encourage everyone to be an organ donor.
