Published April 30, 2021
MELROSE — Grace Catherine Zinck left her loving and devoted family and friends on Friday April 23, 2021 at home. She was diagnosed with Trisomy 18 prenatally and spent all of her 17 years bringing pure joy to all who touched her life. She was the epitome of strength and resilience, far exceeding every expectation, while inspiring those fortunate enough to join her journey. She was a friend to many, a role model of inclusion and she never met a stranger she didn’t like. Grace loved to share that she was, “kind of famous, you know!” Grace had an eye for style. She loved to compliment your new haircut or pretty outfit, especially if it was purple. She loved to travel with her extended family and was quite the foodie. She never shied away from a new restaurant and a seat with the best view. Grace was an active freshman at Melrose High School and proud member of the MHS Unified Basketball Team where she had quite a hand pass. She was also a member of the Tufts Women’s Lacrosse team through Team Impact. In 2017, Grace was named Miss Amazing Teen Massachusetts; a crown she wore proudly.
Grace leaves this world as the loving and cherished daughter of Brian and Catherine Zinck of Melrose, the favorite and proud big sister to Brendan and Audrey Zinck and of course Levi, her dog. She is the granddaughter of Peter and Jane Doyle of Monument Beach, Massachusetts; Faye and Peter Van of Boca Raton, Florida; and the late Frank Zinck and his wife Jean of Melrose. Grace was the niece of Kristen and Michael Murphy of Milton, Massachusetts; and the late Peter Doyle Jr.; as well as her amazing cousins with whom she shares many great memories: Matt, Jack, Ryan, and Colin.
Services will be private. Grace would love nothing more than a true celebration of her life and plans for that will be shared at a later date, reflecting all that she was. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Melrose High School Permanent Scholarship Fund, Grace Zinck Memorial Scholarship at https://mhsfund.org/donate.html. A portion of the proceeds will be donated by the Fund to Malden Catholic High School and St. Mary’s High School, Lynn, in honor of Grace. This fund will give back and provide scholarships for students with families embracing disabilities.
“Amazing Grace” will never be forgotten by all who touched her life. As you remember her, know that she would want you to spend time with the ones you love, go to Maine and play a game or sit by a fire, take a trip to an ice cream shop, take a walk on a beautiful day, jump in a boat for a ride, or grab a jar of Nutella. Most of all live your life as Grace did… spreading joy and kindness to all you come in contact with and ensure that everyone feels as loved as she was. Spread her attributes like the ray of sunshine Grace was. For online tribute, please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com
