Richard “Skip” Zilka, 84, Navy veteran, WVU graduate, friend to everyone, father of three

Richard “Skip” Zilka, loving husband and father of three children, grandfather of five and great-grandfather of one passed away on March 22, 2021. He was 84.



Skip was born on Nov. 17, 1936 in Bentleyville, PA to Stephen and Mary Zilka. Upon graduating high school in 1954, Skip entered the Navy. He married Adella Mae Zilka Aug. 28, 1959 and then earned his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the West Virginia University in 1963.



He is survived by his wife Adella, his three children, Richard Zilka and wife Debbie, Lisa Zilka, Lora Tozzo and husband Dale, grandchildren, Taylor, Alyssa, Hope, Ethan, Emma, and great-grandchild, Ella.



Skip had a passion for family. He was a WVU, Steelers, and Penguins fan and rarely missed a game. He loved his polka music and his wine but mostly his family. He frequented church and kept God close to his heart. He was a friend to everyone he met; no one was a stranger to Skip. His family cherished his laid-back attitude, funny comments, and his kind and compassionate spirit.

Pierce Funeral Home, 9609 Center Street, Manassas, VA. had charge of arrangements,