Gary Zelinger

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our brother and friend, Gary Zelinger on July 27, 2026.

Gary Mark Zelinger was born April 16, 1952 in Yonkers, NY, to Dorothy and Steve Zelinger. He attended St. Mary’s Elementary School, where he was also baptized and confirmed in the Roman Catholic faith.

At an early age, Gary showed signs of a charming sense of humor, great curiosity (especially with all kinds of machinery) and an adventurist spirit.

After relocating from Yonkers to Indiana when Gary was 13, the family settled in Bloomington, Indiana, where he and his older brother, Nick, both attended University High School. Upon graduation, Gary remained in Bloomington for a time before moving north to Indianapolis.

He began an apprenticeship with The Godward Class Studio in East Indianapolis where he enjoyed a life-long career as a stained glass artisan. Gary and another partner eventually purchased the business and spent many years designing and producing high-quality works of art. A sample of his work was displayed in the Indianapolis Children’s Museum.

Besides a talent for stained glass work, Gary also was an excellent carpenter/woodworker, crafting many fine pieces of jewelry boxes, tables and framed works. His talents also inspired his dad, Steve, who held similar interests in woodworking and stained glass.

Gary also enjoyed playing golf and fishing. Along with his cousin Ken, they fished and golfed for many years all over Indiana and surrounding states.

Gary was also an excellent gardener, who grew abundant crops of vegetables every season.

As a brother and friend, Gary had a warm sense of humor and truly kind heart with a capacity to make lots of friends.

His passing leaves the family broken-hearted but also with many warm memories for a life well lived.

He is survived by his brother, Nick (Betsy), and their daughter, Jen (Scott); his sister, Donna (Howard); her children, Sarah (Evan), Ross (Katey), and Reid; and Sarah and Evan’s children, Lucas and Abigail.

Cremation services are scheduled but as of this date, no funeral service or memorial date has been set.

Arrangements entrusted to Aaron Ruben Nelson Mortuary.