Dick Zunt, 78, of Cleveland, Ohio, retired Plain Dealer sportswriter and champion of all high school athletes, coaches and athletic events, died January 2, 2010.After retiring with more than 40 years of shining a spotlight on high school sports, Dick performed assorted duties for various Ohio High School Athletic Association’s state tournaments and state track meets.
He also served on the Sports Advisory Council for the Ohio Bicentennial Commission, even in his retirement.
Read more about Dick's career and his selfless spirit in the obituary written by his friend Mike Peticca, the commentary by fellow sportswriter Dennis Manoloff and the column by Terry Pluto in The Plain Dealer. (Click their names to access their articles.)
Jo Corrigan, who works in the Plain Dealer research department, remembered some of the qualities that endeared Dick to more than just the sports community.
"Dick would crack a joke to lighten a moment and giggle at his own joke," Corrigan said . "Dick Zunt was everyone's support. He was there if you lost a loved one. He would be at the wake.
"Dick provided rides to friends with car troubles or health issues. If he thought it would help, he gave money to folks struggling through tough times.
"He had a passion for his work with high school athletes and the news. He had a strong sense of fairness. He spoke with love, respect and pride about his children.
"I have often heard the phrase 'men for others' associated with St. Ignatius and Jesuit philosophy. Dick Zunt lived that philosophy."
Dan Coughlin, a former Plain Dealer sportswriter, retired Fox Channel 8 sportscaster and one of Dick's best friends, delivered the eulogy. The Plain Dealer recorded it.
Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, January 5, 2010, at Chambers Funeral Home, 4420 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 6, 2010, at St. Patrick Catholic Church (West Park), 4427 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland.
Condolences and more: http://www.chambersfuneral.com/.
This "In Remembrance" of Dick Zunt was compiled by another of Dick's friends, Alana Baranick, former Plain Dealer obituary writer, who originally posted it on ObitsOhio.com on Jan. 2, 2010.
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