Obituary for Paulo S. Zina
Paulo S. Zina, 35, died at his home in Ludlow on Thursday, May 1, 2008. Paulo was born in Springfield, MA, on January 30, 1973, to Augusto and Maria (Salvador) Zina of Belchertown. He went to the Ludlow public schools and graduated from the high school in 1991. After 2 years at the University of Connecticut, Paulo transferred to Westfield State College where he graduated in 1995. In that year he began teaching Spanish and Portuguese at Ludlow High School and met his beloved wife, Jennifer (Kokoski) Zina, of Hadley, MA; they were married on March 25, 2000. A few months later, Paulo received a Masters degree from UMass at Amherst. Paulo also worked at Chmura’s Bakery in Indian Orchard where he made many friends while making deliveries and working behind the counter. In 2003, Paulo and Jen had their first child, Jack, an energetic individual not unlike the father who loved him dearly. In September, 2007, they were blessed with their daughter Sofia whose time with her father was sadly to short. Initially, Paulo’s students at Ludlow High did not quite know what to make of his formidable presence, roaring voice and dramatic style, but soon they discovered that Senor Zina was a creative, inspiring teacher who took a genuine interest in them and their learning. Paulo also brought new energy to the faculty by his infectious good cheer and organizing many social events for his colleagues. His unique wit and sense of humor were at once wickedly clever and ironic. People wanted to be around Paulo to laugh and be energized by his dynamic personality. Paulo also had a tender side which embraced many adults and students seeking a sympathetic ear and a generous heart. He was active on several educational committees and served the Ludlow Educational Association as its negotiations chairman in 2004. For a short period, he was also the school’s Advanced Placement coordinator and chairman of the foreign language department. Paulo rejuvenated the Spanish Club, led student trips to Europe, directed the annual Senior Show and initiated the student talent show. His classroom was always cluttered with the paraphernalia of these activities and an array of student projects. In 2005, Paulo began working as an Educational Manager for the College Boards of Waltham, MA. He welcomed the challenges of his new career and earned the respect of his coworkers who recognized his intelligence and professionalism. In addition to his parents, wife and children, Paulo leaves his dear sister Nancy Zina, his maternal grandfather, Armando Salvador, his father-and mother-in-law, John and Elaine Kokoski of Hadley, and numerous family members, friends, colleagues and former students. Paulo was predeceased by his grandfather, Torcato Zina, and his grandmothers, Maria Alice Salvador and Beatriz Zina. Funeral services for Paulo will be held Monday May 5th 2008.  Family and friends are asked to meet for a celebration of Paulo’s life at 10:00am at St. Mary of the Assumption Church on East Street, followed by burial in Island Pond Cemetery. Calling hours will be held Sunday afternoon at Ludlow Funeral Home, 432 East St. , from 2:00-5:00pm and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Paulo’s memory to: Paulo Zina Memorial Fund, care of Bank of America Cherry St. Ludlow MA. 01056.Â
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Paulo’s memory to: Paulo Zina Memorial Fund, care of Bank of America Cherry St. Ludlow MA. 01056.
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In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Paulo’s memory to: Paulo Zina Memorial Fund, care of Bank of America Cherry St. Ludlow MA. 01056.
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