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Matthew Ziemianski Obituary
Ziemianski, Dr. Matthew "Dr. Z"
a distinguished retinal surgeon / ophthalmologist passed away on July 14th, 2024, at the age of 84 after a long battle with Parkinson's. He is survived by his sons Matthew (Jennifer) of St. Louis, MO, Jason of Los Angeles, CA, his grandchildren Drew, Ali, Mikayla, Van, Ty and former wife of 46 years and mother of his sons, Susan of Scottsdale, AZ. His family and friends brought him immense joy and pride over the years.
Born December 9th, 1939, in New Kensington, PA, Dr. Z's journey was marked by family firsts, extraordinary accomplishments, and dedication to his profession. Dr. Z, along with his late brother, Dr. Lawrence Ziemianski, were not only the first in their family to finish college but also became doctors. After medical school, he joined the Army and was deployed to Vietnam as a surgeon holding the rank of Captain. Upon his return to the States, he fulfilled his retina fellowship at the Harvard School of Medicine. He eventually settled in Kansas City where he established himself through Midwest Eye Consultants and private practice in addition to a 10-year role with the Kansas City Chiefs' medical staff.
Dr. Z found joy in sports as well, particularly tennis, golf and coaching his sons in little league. He was a diehard Kansas Jayhawks fan, holding season tickets for 20 years, attending almost every home game.
Throughout his life, Dr. Z showed integrity, kindness and a relentless pursuit for excellence. His memory will be cherished by his family, friends, colleagues and patients.
Services: A visitation will be held at Bopp Chapel, 10610 Manchester Rd., in Kirkwood, MO on Thursday, August 15th, from 5-7 p.m. His committal service will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 16th at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Michael J. Fox Parkinson's Foundation or to A.L.I.V.E in St. Louis. We all miss him dearly. www.boppchapel.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Ziemianski
3 Entries
Dr. Laxmidas Sawkar
August 7, 2024
Dr. Z was one of the nicest person and the great doctor I have met in my life in Kansas City. He was neighbor as well as a physician neighbor at office in Georgetown Medical Building. Our heart felt condolances to all family. We pray for his soul rest in peace.
Bob Kelly
August 4, 2024
Oh my. I remember having an office when I worked at Baptist Medical Center which I shared with their suite on Troost. What a wonderful man. Rest In Peace Dr. Z.
Sue Dahn/Komen
August 4, 2024
I am so very sad to hear of Dr Z passing. I worked with him at Baptist Medical Center starting in 1986 until he went to Arizona and again when he came back to KC. I have so so many wonderful memories of hi kindness, the ways he respected his patients, how he helped nurses and other surgeons during tough times and hard days. Shutting the laser room doors and just sitting in there laughing, catching up, and most definitely gossiping!!! He was a truly excellent surgeon/diagnostician and the city of KC is a better place because of him. My sympathies to his family.
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