Leo R. "Skip" Zilla

Leo R. Zilla “Skip” of Parma Heights, Ohio, born June 22,1946, passed away on April 22, 2026, at the age of 79. Skip was a graduate of West Deer High School and Columbia University. He is survived by his three children and his sisters Patricia Z. Belledin and Jane F. Mansueto.

Rather than reflect upon the details of Skip’s life, we would rather share what we will forever hold dear…our memories with him. Regularly cheering Skip on at his sporting events is among our best memories. Unfortunately, some memories were not so pleasant. In one of his football games, Skip exited the field after cracking off two of his front teeth. He also was taken by ambulance for medical treatment after suffering a concussion. We also remember the wonderful times spent harmonizing around the piano with Skip to the Italian folk song “Marianina.”

When Grandma Zilla passed away around Christmastime, Dad wanted no decorations, not even a tree. Because we kids felt it was still important to share this holiday tradition as a family, the three of us cut down an evergreen from our property line, only to learn that the tree belonged to the neighbors. Another “fond” memory is when Jane decided it would be fun to ride on Skip’s shoulders as he steered his bike down the dirt road from the Tedescos’ house. She freaked out when they got to the highway that passed in front of our house, jumped off Skip’s shoulders, hit her head on a rock, and landed so hard that the gash required stitches…a lasting reminder of this “adventure.” Because Skip and Jane hated worms, many “memorable” moments occurred when Pat chased us around the back yard with slimy worms in hand.

The memories we share here are ones that reflect our lives with Skip, ones that will always make us smile when we think of him.

Private family services were held.

Arrangements under the care of 

Cannon-Catavolos Funeral Home of Parma Heights (440)842-0456

For online tributes and condolences please visit our website at

www.C-Cfuneralhome.com