Pasquale “Pat” J. Zarlenga, 87, passed away suddenly on November 20, 2024, in West Melbourne, Florida.
He was born in Fall River a son of the late Pasquale A. and Margaret V. (Jannetta) Zarlenga. Beloved husband of Beverly A. (Imondi) Zarlenga, with whom he shared over 64 years of marriage. Devoted father of Andrew M. Zarlenga (former Assistant Fire Chief N.P.F.D.) (Tonia Still); Brian P. Zarlenga (former Battalion Chief N.P.F.D) (Cheri Sgambato) Cherished grandfather of Christopher Zarlenga and wife Jennifer Zarlenga, and proud great- grandfather of Rhodes Zarlenga. He was the dear brother of Richard E. Zarlenga and his sister-in-law, the late Ann Marie Zarlenga.
A LIFE OF SERVICE & DEDICATION –
Pat’s life was marked by a commitment to service, family, and education. A graduate of Wentworth Institute and Roger Williams College, he proudly served in the Army National Guard. Pat began his distinguished career with the Marieville Fire Department, where he dedicated over 35 years, retiring as Fire Chief. His contributions to fire safety and education extended further as a member of the Fire Education & Training Coordinating Board and the Fire Academy.
Beyond firefighting, Pat held key leadership roles in the construction industry. He served as the Director of the Rhode Island Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America, where he also chaired the Education Committee at both the state and national levels. He worked as Chief Estimator for Bacon Construction and served as Director of North Providence Public Works.
FAMILY & PASSIONS –
Pat was a devoted family man who found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was a passionate supporter of his grandson Christopher’s hockey career, faithfully attending games from childhood through college. Recently, he was overjoyed by the arrival of his great-grandson, Rhodes, the fourth generation in the Zarlenga family. Pat’s most treasured moments were spent with family. He spent time with Rhodes last Christmas when he and Beverly surprised the family visiting Rhode Island. He was lucky to see his grandson’s family on a visit to Florida in August and was ecstatic about seeing him again this upcoming Christmas.
In his later years, Pat revisited his life’s journey through a self-published memoir, Memories, a testament to his rich and fulfilling life.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Visitation on Wednesday at 10:30 – 12:00 noon in the PONTARELLI-MARINO HOME, 971 Branch Avenue, Providence. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 p.m. in the Church of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 1081 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Providence. Burial with Military Honors will follow in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket.
Pat’s legacy of dedication, love, and service will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Tunnel to Towers Foundation in Memory of Pasquale J. Zarlenga, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
www.T2T.org