Robert F. ZARZYCKI

In Loving Memory of Robert Francis Zarzycki...

Bob Zarzycki, age 85, of Middleburg Heights, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026. 

Born in Lorain, Ohio, to Joseph and Florence Zarzycki, Robert grew up grounded in faith and family values. He attended Holy Name High School, graduating with the Class of 1958, before serving his country in the U.S. Army for two years, stationed in Germany. Following his military service, he pursued his lifelong passion for design, earning a degree in Architecture from Kent State University. Robert’s life’s work was foretold by his aunt, Sister Francis of the Sancta Clara Monastery in Canton, who lovingly told him before her passing, "You will be a builder of Churches." Because of his deep devotion to God, her words became his calling. Robert began his spiritual and architectural journey of church design with Saint John Neumann Catholic Church in Strongsville. Over a distinguished career, he designed numerous sacred spaces, culminating with Saint Raphael Catholic Church in Bay Village. 

Beyond his devoted work for local parishes, Robert shaped the physical landscape of his own community with a wide variety of public and commercial structures, including the Middleburg Heights Fire Station. A lifelong athlete, Robert had a deep passion for sports—besides truly enjoying the game of golf every Saturday morning, he especially enjoyed the game of basketball. He was happiest when sharing that love with his family, whether playing sports with his children or cheering them on from the sidelines. He took immense pride in watching all of his children compete, especially his daughter, Dana, on the basketball court. Robert also cherished the camaraderie of sports with his close friends, competing together for years in the "Over the Hill, Over 30 Superstars" games. When their competing days came to an end, that special bond continued as some of those friends traded the competition for weekly Friday morning breakfasts together. Some of his favorite times were family vacations, particularly trips to Myrtle Beach and crazy fun Sunday picnics at Pleasant Valley Lake. 

An avid hometown fan, he always enjoyed watching the Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Cavaliers surrounded by his family. Above all, his most cherished moments were those simple, fun times when everyone was all together. Above all his accomplishments, Robert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Sharon, with whom he shared a marriage of true love and friendship from the day they met; his four children, Dave (Lynee), Joe (Sher), Dana (Lori), and Scott (Julie); his two sisters, Tina Abella (Mike, deceased) and Georgia Jakovcic (John); his ten cherished grandchildren, R.J., Rourke, Zach, Jack, Summer, Michael, Dominic (Ashley), JJ, Jada, and Emma; as well as numerous extended family members and dear friends. His quiet strength and warm heart made everyone around him feel welcomed. He was immensely proud of his children and all of their accomplishments. He was truly one of the good ones—a kind, hardworking, honorable man who loved his family deeply. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, family, and friendship. May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

VISITATION, THURS. AUG. 6, 4:00 - 8:00 PM AT THE ZABOR FUNERAL HOME, 5680 PEARL RD. PARMA OH 44129 (BETW. RIDGE & SNOW). FUNERAL MASS, FRI. AUG. 7, 12 NOON AT ST. JOHN BOSCO CHURCH, PARMA HTS. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Bob's name may be made to Sancta Clara Monastery, Canton OH or any non-profit of your choosing.