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Michael Zarnowski Obituary
Michael J. Zarnowski, 72, of Fort Lauderdale, FL passed away on April 24, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. No service can be arranged at this time.
Mike was an Eagle Scout from Troop 716, West Haven, Connecticut. After graduating from Notre Dame HS ('66) and Duquesne University (1970) he served in the US Army as a First Lieutenant. He served 12 years as a Police Officer in the New Haven (Connecticut) Police Department and then 24 years as a Disease Intervention Specialist with the Florida Public Health Department He was environmentally committed, giving freely of his time to cleaning waterways and striving for roadside cleanliness. Mike's love of golf and travel and friends were second only to his Joie de Vivre! He lived his life fully and with gusto. He embellished a joke so that people were laughing long before the punch line. As an adult, Mike taught himself Spanish. He was a person of strong convictions but willing to learn from a good counter argument. On a daily basis, Mike practiced random acts of kindness.
He was both a terrific brother and devoted uncle to his niece and two nephews. He was always encouraging them and never missed any of their life events. Mike was present in Peachtree Corners, Georgia for every one of their important milestones in their 30+ year lives. We will miss him terribly.
Mike was predeceased by his mother, Elizabeth B. Zarnowski, his father Alfred J. Zarnowski, his brother Daniel J. Zarnowski, his dearest Aunt, Janet B. Whitmore and Uncle Joseph T. Morann, Wesley Whitmore and his stepmother Imogene Zarnowski.
He is survived by his brothers, James Zarnowski (Patricia) of Peachtree Corners, GA and Scott Zarnowski, of Casselberry, FL; niece Alexis A. Zarnowski, Sandy Springs GA and, nephews Ryan J. Zarnowski (Alyson) of Peachtree Corners, GA and Shawn J. Zarnowski of Atlanta, GA.
Other survivors include step sisters Sandra Provenzano, Plantation, FL and Deborah Wyche, Merritt Island, FL, and step brother Beaver Provenzano, Melbourne, FL. Mike is also survived by his beloved dog and companion "Hambone".
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Memories and Condolences
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Robert Grandy
March 29, 2025
Mike was a great guy and teammate on our xc team at Duquesne. He was our top runner and our captain.
Norrene Bacher
April 28, 2024
Mike was such a brilliant triva player at the Moose Lodge :) I can hear him saying, Take it to the bank :)
Mark Tobin
May 2, 2022
I remember going with Mike out to the piece of property that his father owned out of town. It was an uncleared lot with trees and brush etc. I thought this would be a great adventure for us. As it turned out, Mike's dad put us both to work carrying logs, small trees, brush, etc. In reality, it was a good day. We were both dog tired, but we had a good time. We did some exploring in the afternoon before heading home. Not the most exciting of days but one that I remember. Nothing like working with someone to get to know them better and I think we became better friends after
that experience.
Norrene Bacher
April 28, 2021
U touched so many lives, including mine. Will forever remember you :)
Leonard Gallo
October 22, 2020
I had the pleasure of working with Mike in the New Haven Police Department. Mike ,in my professional opinion, was one of the very sharpest, and brightest of Police Officers that were on the Department at that time. As a person he was sincere caring and empathetic to all who crossed his path . As an Officer he was relentless in his pursuit of justice for victims of crime.He was a helluva good Cop and a wonderful human being. He was missed the day he left NHPD. God Speed brother.
Car 44
October 21, 2020
Mike was my FTO after I graduated from the New Haven Police Academy. We worked in Car 45 in the Hill Section with Sergeant Listro as our immediate supervisor. His knowledge of the job and dedication to both his co-workers and members of the general public was obvious. During my time in training with him, I saw Mike as being a natural in having the ability to easily develop relationships with most people he came across, especially when we were on calls that involved high stress and two-way communication. His professional attitude and his kind hearted nature left a long-lasting impact on me and made me the kind of police officer I believe he instilled in me. May you Rest In Peace Mike; you deserve it. Deep condolences to your loved ones as well.
Colin Ryan
May 24, 2020
Mike was a great friend to my dad and our family since before I was born. His warmth and energy was a huge presence whenever he was around and I'm grateful I was able to see him in New Haven a few years ago when he was up for a visit. Mike was a big part of our collective family history and we're all grateful for that.
Caitlin Ryan
May 9, 2020
Mike was one of my father's closest friends. I have many memories of his booming laugh, vivacity and generosity. When my dad and I went to visit him in Florida, he went out of his way to make our time together incredibly special. I was so touched by his generosity and thoughtfulness towards me as a child, and I was so moved when he took the same approach with my son. Our family will miss him greatly.
Mark Tobin
May 7, 2020
I knew Mike for over 55 years and I am proud to call him my friend. I felt that he was a special person and I know my life was enriched by our friendship. He was one of the Good Guys. He gave of himself without question or concern and was always there to lend a helping hand to those in need. I know I will miss his sense of humor and smile and the way he never let life's hardships get him down. RIP.
Joan
May 7, 2020
A great guy, love playing trivia with him all these years. He always had a robot voice and laugh.
Becky Ronken
May 7, 2020
I will miss Mike. Years of playing trivia with, and against him, has taught me much! (Mostly that I don't know everything :-) ) He was a great teammate, and a formidable competitor; a walking encyclopedia/Google of varying subjects and big words. I'll remember his laugh, and his old-school manners and smile when I think of him. We will raise a glass to you soon, and tell stories.... Rest in Peace, my friend.
Norrene Bacher
May 6, 2020
Mike was an awesome man. I totally enjoyed his company while playing trivia. Take it to the bank Mike. C you in heaven brother ♥♥
Jim Stockton
May 6, 2020
You were a great part of our Sunday Trivia and you will be missed greatly. We will take it to the bank for you!
Mike Ryan
May 5, 2020
Mike had several good friends. I was fortunate to be one of them. He was a wonderful listener throughout good times and bad. From the days we played poker at his home, Mike was always a wonderful host. He was a generous person - he took my kids for rides on his motorcycle, talked with them in depth about their interests, paid for plenty of pizzas and meals and kept everyone laughing. I thank him for his ability to enhance the lives of those around him. I will miss his wealth of practical information and his strong, independent political opinions. Most of all, I will miss his caring nature. He left many beautiful memories.
Jerry
May 5, 2020
I am truly sadden in Mikes passing. He was a great cop with a true dedication to his profession. When Mike was in car 63, you just knew you had the best backup possible. He displayed a fairness in judgement no matter who you was. His piercing eyes and smile will always be remembered by me. Sleep well Mike until we meet again my friend.
Ken Thomas
May 4, 2020
I spendt a fair amount of time with Mike when we were kids and young adults prior to him moving south. I never heard him have a bad word about anybody. R. I. P my friend.
Ret.
May 4, 2020
I had the pleasure of working with Mike in the New Haven Police Department. Mike ,in my professional opinion, was one of the very sharpest, and brightest of Police Officers that were on the Department at that time. As a person he was sincere caring and empathetic to all who crossed his path . As an Officer he was relentless in his pursuit of justice for victims of crime.He was a helluva good Cop and a wonderful human being. He was missed the day he left NHPD. God Speed brother.
Joyce ONeill
May 4, 2020
Family he loved so, we are sorry for your loss, Mike will be missed by so many. Our friendship goes back to NH Police but we kept in touch. He was all that and more, a beautiful caring and loving person.
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