Paul Michael Zamzow

Paul Michael Zamzow, 76, of Kansas City, MO, passed away on June 2nd, 2025, of Lewy Body Dementia, caused by his exposure to Agent Orange during his military tour in Vietnam.

Born on August 16, 1948, in Bremerton, Washington, Paul led a life marked by service and dedication. He earned two Bachelor of Science degrees—one in Biology and another in Law Enforcement—from Northeast Missouri State University (now Truman State University). His academic achievements laid the foundation for a distinguished career in federal law enforcement.

Paul retired as a Special Agent with the U.S. Treasury Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms, where he spent 22 years in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. He dedicated his professional life to upholding the law and ensuring public safety. His commitment to justice was shaped in part by his military service as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army. He served in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970 and was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, D Battery, 8th of the 6th Artillery, 8” self-propelled howitzer unit at Lai Khe and various other bases until March 1970. After turning over the artillery to the ARVN, he received orders to report to the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) Headquarters at Phuoc Vinh. He was stationed at various bases with A Battery, 2nd of the 19th Artillery, 105mm howitzer unit before going into Cambodia in May 1970. He was stationed at firebase Brown and firebase Neil in Cambodia and stayed until June 1970. After withdrawing back into Vietnam from Cambodia, he was stationed 30 kilometers north of Saigon until September 1970. His time in the military reflected his courage and sense of duty—qualities that remained with him throughout his life.

Beyond his career and military service, Paul was known for his sharp wit and love of storytelling. He had an innate ability to bring people together through humor and engaging tales. A devoted father and grandfather, he cherished the time spent with his children and grandchildren. Paul had a heartfelt passion for music and animals. One of his most cherished destinations was Disney World.

Paul is survived by his wife of 49 years, Patricia (Pat) Wright; son Eric Zamzow (Jennifer Lavoro) of Farmington, Arkansas; daughter Vanessa Zamzow (Larry Smith) of Kansas City Missouri; 5 grandchildren, Elliot & Gia Zamzow and Jackson, Mason & Maya Smith; his brother Dave Zamzow (Cindy) of Glendale, Arizona; nephew David Zamzow of St. Augustine, Florida (children Kai and Alia); niece Lisa Moorlag (Matt) of Maryland, (children Lauren and Collin); and cousins Jeanne and Carolyn Feuchtenbeiner of St. Louis, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Vera (Feuchtenbeiner) Zamzow and Lola, a black, miniature Italian Greyhound, his best bud.

Paul’s legacy lives through the stories he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the love he gave to those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW Post 7356, 2 Main St, Parkville, MO 64152 on Monday, July 14th, from 5 to 7 pm, (program from 5:30 pm to 6 pm).

Our thanks to VFW Veterans Service Officer, Chad Cobb.

If you would like to make a donation, please donate to the National Veterans Service at www.vfw.org or local VFW Post 7356, 2 Main St, Parkville, MO 64152.