HERKIMER-Mr. John J. Zuis, 85, of Eastern Avenue, Herkimer, husband of the late Elizabeth "Betty" (Chmielewski) Zuis, entered into eternal rest suddenly on Monday afternoon, September 13, 2010 in his home. He was born on May 27, 1925 in Herkimer son of the late John K. and Katherine M. (Kenyon) Zuis and educated in Herkimer schools. On March 10, 1948 John was joined in marriage with Elizabeth Chmielewski in St. Joseph's Church, Herkimer; the couple shared a 57-year union, one that was securely founded upon their mutual love, support and dedication, and one that brought them great joy and satisfaction. He was last employed as a plant supervisor with the former Chicago Pneumatic, retiring in 1986 after several years of dedicated service. Mr. Zuis answered the call of duty enlisting to serve our country with the U.S. army on October 8, 1943, serving during World War II. He was the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He was honorably discharged on March 29, 1946 from the Fort Dix, New Jersey Separation Center holding the rank of Technician Fifth Grade with the 100th Infantry Division, 399th Infantry Regiment. John was a proud Veteran and rightfully so. He served overseas in the European theatre of operations as anti tank cannoneer. He was a member of a 10 man crew, manning a 57 mm anti tank gun. He assisted in emplacing gun, passing ammunition, and doing maintenance work on gun and equipment. He fired gun and set range, in absence of other crewman. He participated in the Rhineland and Central Europe campaigns, and was awarded 2 battle stars and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. A caring and generous man, John was always ready to assist those who needed a hand; his gentle ways were a sign of his kind-hearted nature. He was humble in his attitude and loved people. It was from his family that he derived his greatest pleasure and gratifying satisfaction, especially from his grandchildren. He was gifted with a wonderful personality and was loved and respected by all who knew him, he will be sadly missed by many. John was of the Catholic faith. John was community minded and a member of the following organizations: Herkimer VFW Post #4915 (life member) and served as past commander, life member of the Polish Home of Herkimer, life member of Salisbury Ridge Runners, St. Francis Society, Frankfort, Herkimer American Legion, Herkimer Elk's Lodge and the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club. John was also an accomplished golfer. Survivors include his loving family; a son, Alan J. Zuis and his wife Karen of Little Falls; two daughters, Valerie Schreck-Fasteson of Frankfort and Pamela Zuis of Herkimer; a sister: Frances Zuis; a brother: Charles Zuis; ten grandchildren, Kimberly Petronella, Andrew Bliss, Joseph Schreck, Abigail Schreck, Audrey Zuis, Andrea Zuis, Alexander Zuis, Greg Llewellyn, Stephanie Blum, and Zachary Blum; four great-grandchildren, Anthony and Nicholas Rocco, Sidney Bliss and Nathan Page; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Edmund Zuis. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Enea Family Funeral Home, 220 N. Washington St., Herkimer (866-1011) on Thursday, September 16, 2010 from 5-8 p.m. His funeral will commence at 10:15 am on Friday, September 17, 2010 from the chapel of the funeral home where prayer will be offered and at 11:00 am from St Francis de Sales Church, N. Bellinger St., Herkimer where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Mark Cunningham, pastor. Procession will follow to Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer where John will be laid to rest with his beloved wife, Elizabeth. Military honors will be accorded by the U.S. Army. In lieu of floral offerings kindly consider memorial offerings to St. Jude's Children's Hospital; envelopes are available at the funeral parlor. The following organizations will conduct services at the Enea Family Funeral Home on Thursday evening: Herkimer VFW Post #4915 at 5:30; St. Francis Society at 6:00; Herkimer American Legion at 6:30 p.m.; and the Herkimer Elk's Lodge at 7:00 p.m. The family is being cared for by funeral director, Daniel J. Enea.