Robert Zissa

Robert F. Zissa, 98, formerly of Reading and Pottstown, passed away Thursday, December 21, 2017 in the compassionate care of Country Meadows of Wyomissing and Bayada Hospice. He was the husband of the late Bernice K. (Grubb) Zissa who passed away May 23, 1989. Born in Pottstown on January 13, 1919, Mr. Zissa was the son of the late Frank F. and Flora M. (Huetter) Zissa. He was a 1938 graduate of the Hill School and a 1949 graduate of Syracuse University. He served in the United States Army during World War II and achieved the highest rank, first lieutenant, chiefly in anti-aircraft artillery. Mr. Zissa spent a total of 35 years in news work beginning in 1938. He originally served on Pottstown Morning Herald, then Pottstown Mercury and then York Dispatch before starting at the Reading Eagle, for 25 years, retiring in 1981. He spent a year in public relations at American Bank and Trust Company and a year as editor of the Historical Review of Berks County. He was active for years in the Berks Art Alliance, serving terms as president, vice president, and publicity chairman. Mr. Zissa is survived by his son David E. Zissa of Huntsville, Alabama and his daughter Marjory Z. Pitcher, wife of Steven T. Pitcher of The Villages, Florida and his granddaughter Emily J. Zissa and his great grandchildren Jaiden C. and Damien J. McMillan. He was a very humble, kind, and caring person who was loyal to friends.
The family will receive relatives and friends in Bean Funeral Home, North 16th & Rockland Streets, Hampden Heights, Friday, December 29, 2017 from 11:00 am to 12 Noon. Inurnment will be held at the convenience of the family in Charles Evans Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to National Wildlife Federation PO Box 1583, Merrifield, Virginia 22116-1583 in memory of Mr. Robert F. Zissa. Online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com.