DONALD ZARDA Obituary

Name: Memorial service for DONALD ZARDA
Start: 2014-11-01T19:00:00.000Z
Location: Vincentian Parish Mission Center

Donald Zarda, 44, passed away October 3, 2014 in Switzerland. He was born in Missouri, lived in Texas, and was pursuing EU citizenship. A skilled electrician and IT professional, he graduated from Embry- Riddle Aeronautical University with a BS in Technical Management / International Relations. An experienced skydiver, Don excelled at every discipline of the sport. He helped thousands create memorable life experiences while serving as a licensed tandem master and skydive instructor at dropzones worldwide. An airplane pilot, he also dedicated his life to BASE jumping as a member of an elite group of wingsuit athletes. Don had a big smile and an even bigger personality. His spirit, enthusiasm, and infectious laughter electrified those around him. He enjoyed sharing his adventures with loved ones, and especially relished encouraging others to experience adventures of their own. An intelligent, generous, fun, and truly unique person, Don made friends across the globe. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and everyone in the BASE community. He is survived by his mother Shirley (Greer) Zarda, his sisters Kim Zarda and Melissa Zarda, his dear friend William Moore, and his pets Sachie and Tiny Cat. He was predeceased by his father Jerry Zarda, his sister Gara Zarda, and his feline friends, Mynx, China, and Little Cat. A memorial will be held November 1 at 2pm at the Vincentian Parish Mission Center at 2100 N. Noland Road in Independence, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to your local animal shelter. "3-2-1 C-ya" (Don's signature exit).

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Published by Kansas City Star on Oct. 26, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for DONALD ZARDA

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13 Entries

Mackenzie Beaver

February 27, 2025

Thank you Don, for your courage and willingness to stand up for what is right. We are all better off for it.

Katherina Stumpfig

June 16, 2020

You are a Hero, Don Zarda ❤
Millions of thanks from Millions of people.

T. B. Willis

June 15, 2020

You made history today in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision.

Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen

Dusty Phillips

June 15, 2020

You won, Don. You won.

JJ Cook

October 12, 2019

Thanks for standing up for us!

October 8, 2019

Gone but not forgotten.

James Hooper

May 22, 2017

Donnie and I were good friends in seventh and eighth grade. I remember how much he missed his dad. He was such a great guy. We somehow lost contact over the years and I Googled to see if I could find him. So sad to hear of his early death. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.

Shirley Edwards

October 14, 2015

I fell asleep tonight & then woke up, wondering whatever Donnie Zarda was up to these days. Such a shock to read of his tragic death. He was a student in my first grade class, & sometimes would stop by to visit as he grew up. His smile could light up any room. Sincere condolences to all the family.

Bob Stell

June 12, 2015

I only knew "Donnie" as he was called back in the early 80's as a quiet, smart kid. I worked with his sister Gara at Zarda Bar BQ in Blue Springs, Missouri. The memory I have of him is that he rigged his bicycle with some batteries and a car stereo with LOUD speakers. I googled him tonight just to see whatever happened to him and found out about his amazing life and untimely death.

Ed Friedlander

November 1, 2014

Don and I began skydiving together, and over my years as an occasional jumper, Don was my favorite among the professionals. One of lifetime regrets is that I passed up his invitation to go to Bridge Day in West Virginia. But I will always cherish several long conversations, and be glad that I wrote to him on his last birthday, "Don, I wish I had your life." In Don's memory, I will try to help others find their own inner resources of courage. Thank for everything, Don. You lived the dream inspired millions.

Amy Butler-Vlahovic

October 30, 2014

I remember Donnie during his time at Wentworth & the Lexington Airport. He was a fine young man and an honor to call him friend. He will be missed by the world but heaven gained an angel with his own wings. Fly high Donnie till we meet again.

Dan Grindle

October 26, 2014

Fly Free Brother

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