Elaine Ann Zink

Elaine Ann Zink, 74, of The Villages passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 6, 2026. Elaine was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend known for her adventurous spirit, generosity, and love of life. Born December 20, 1951, in Warren, Michigan, to Edward and Josephine Wielechowski, Elaine married Barry Zink on December 23, 1977. Together, Elaine and Barry built a life, raised their family, and worked alongside one another for more than 40 years in Charlotte, MI.

Elaine rarely passed up an opportunity to try something new. She enjoyed traveling, painting, dancing, walking, and shopping for a good deal. Whether climbing mountains, drag-racing, or jumping out of a perfectly good airplane, Elaine was always ready for a new adventure. She especially enjoyed traveling with friends and, later in life, with her good friend Bob Buchanan.

Among Elaine’s greatest joys were her four granddaughters - Riley, Cora, Sadie and Libby Jo. She treasured her relationship with each of them. Whether taking them on special trips, shopping, sharing a meal, or simply spending time together, being their grandma “Jo-Jo” brought her tremendous happiness.

Elaine will be remembered for her caring and generous nature, her independence, her adventurous spirit, and her ability to enjoy life on her own terms.

She is survived by her two sons, Kurt (Daile) Zink and Eric Zink (and fiancée Candace Cook); and granddaughters Riley, Cora, Sadie, and Libby Jo. She was preceded in death by her husband, Barry Zink; parents Edward and Josphine Wielechowski; in-laws, Wallace and Dorothy Zink; and good friend Bob Buchanan.

True to Elaine’s nature, she didn’t want a traditional farewell. Instead, she wanted a “Life Party” – an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share stories, enjoy good food, and celebrate a life well lived.

Her Life Party will be on Friday, October 2nd from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the Savannah Center.

Elaine will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan alongside her husband, Barry, and near other family members.

Memorial contributions may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind in Rochester MI. Friends and family are encouraged to share their memories and stories of Elaine on her Tribute Page. The family is being cared for by Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services.