Walter S. Zarzycki Jr.

Walter S. Zarzycki, Jr., a humble and spirited soul known lovingly as Butch or Walt to his friends and family, passed away on January 19, 2025. Born on February 2, 1947, in Philadelphia, PA, Walt's life was characterized by his wit, love, and an invincible spirit that touched everyone around him. A lifelong resident of Philadelphia, a self-proclaimed left-handed Pollock, proud graduate of North Catholic High School, and Vietnam Army Veteran. Walt worked as a SEPTA cashier before his well-deserved retirement. His love for simple pleasures like drinking coffee, playing chess, engaging in his favorite shows, Star Trek and Law and Order, and taking road trips demonstrated his zest for life. His love for his Game Boy, casino visits, Pennsylvania Lottery, and word fill-ins were testaments to his witty charm and playful nature.
Walt was a loving father, pop pop, and g-pop. He leaves behind his daughters; Christina Gorey (Pat), Marcella McGarvey (Jim), Jennifer Anusky (Troy) and Nicole Pondillo (Andy), his grandchildren; Justin (Ashley), Patrick, Meghan, Bridget (Nick), Evan, Troy (Darbi), Zachary, Brendan, step-grandchild, Anthony and his great-grandchildren; Liam, Leilani, Eliana, Magnolia, Troy "T3", Waylon, and Devin. He is also survived by his sister Dawn Manley and brother-in-law Robert Robb. He will also be sadly missed by his nieces, family and friends. Walt was preceded in death by his father Walter Zarzycki, Sr. mother Veronica Zarzycki, spouse Ruth Zarzycki, sister Veronica Robb and brother-in-law George "Ned" Manley.
Walt was a man who held his family and his cat, Jet, close to his heart. His loving nature and warm spirit will be missed. He had a unique insistence on being called Walt, not Walter; the exception was the good nuns who were granted the privilege of using his full name.
Relatives and friends may greet Walt's family on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm at Christ the King Church, 3252 Chesterfield Road, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19114 followed by a Mass of Christian at 12:00 pm. Graveside and Military Honors will be held at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Road, Newtown, Pennsylvania, 18940, at 2:30 pm.
We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Walt on his memorial page, celebrating his life and the joy he brought to those around him. His life was a testament to the beauty of simplicity, the power of love, and the value of humility. Let's remember Walt as he was, a spirited, witty and loving individual who made the world a bit brighter with his presence. Your stories and pictures will serve as a tribute to his beautiful life and the love he had for everyone.