March 22, 2014
March 22, 2014
I knew Zarko at General Magic. We were on different engineering teams and so never worked together closely. Still, besides his enormous talent, I'll always remember his warm smile and gentle manner. A great loss.
This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Zarko Draganic, born on October 1, 1966 and passed away on March 6, 2014. We will remember him forever. Please share your thoughts and stories here.
Tributes
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March 22, 2014
March 22, 2014
My condolences to all of Zarko's friends and family --- he was memorable, kind, witty, and intelligent. Although I did not know Zarko well, I am thankful for the time we spent together. Like many, I first met Zarko during General Magic's heyday, and appreciated the time that we worked together.
March 22, 2014
March 22, 2014
"To live is the rarest thing in the world….Most people exist, that is
all" Oscar Wilde
Your life was a storybook tale. A common thread in everyone's memory is how very kind, gentle and unassuming you were with your engaging smile and twinkle in your eyes. Nothing average about you and the life you leave behind. We wish that everyone left here could have pulled you back collectively from the darkness. Such a tragic ending to an incredibly gifted life…our hearts are breaking for Nellie, Sam & Vivvi….
all" Oscar Wilde
Your life was a storybook tale. A common thread in everyone's memory is how very kind, gentle and unassuming you were with your engaging smile and twinkle in your eyes. Nothing average about you and the life you leave behind. We wish that everyone left here could have pulled you back collectively from the darkness. Such a tragic ending to an incredibly gifted life…our hearts are breaking for Nellie, Sam & Vivvi….
March 22, 2014
March 22, 2014
What a terrible, terrible shock this is !!!....We have known Zarko since he was 15 years old !...He liked coming to dinner at our house...Lorne's Apple II+ computer...the fact that Lorne worked at Bell-Northern Research in Ottawa and knew all of the newest things they were developing in technology, or trying to, and loved explaining things! .... I think he kind of liked my oatmeal-chocolate chip cookies too!!! And of course his friendship with our daughters Kathleen and Patricia and all of their cute girlfriends! When Zarko's dear parents had to live out of the country in Africa because of his dad's job, he came and lived with us to finish his High School ... I remember him going to a Canada wide science fair in Halifax and flying back with a live Lobster in water in a plastic bag under his jacket for me!.... Yuk!!!...How proud he was getting his first summer job at Bell-Northern Research...first car ...first new car ...being accepted at Waterloo University etc., etc.!! He really did become one of the family....helping Kathleen leave home and move into residence at Ottawa U so she wouldn't be embarrassed if I started crying when I had to say good-bye!!! Flying from California all the way to Côte d'Ivoire for Patricia's wedding in 1995. We have so many wonderful memories of Zarko!.....always so thoughtful, kind, polite, and that smile........everyone loved him!!!!! Our love, Hugs and deepest Sympathy to all of the Draganics!!
March 21, 2014
March 21, 2014
Zarko...you were an amazing human. I was fortunate that you reported to me at General Magic, and that we came up with a way to create AltoComm and eventually spin it out as your own company to run with. We had fun with that process and became friends.
You were smart, fun, full of life.
May you continue that love of life in your next life and beyond. And I certainly hope to meet again wherever and whenever that is.
You were smart, fun, full of life.
May you continue that love of life in your next life and beyond. And I certainly hope to meet again wherever and whenever that is.
March 21, 2014
March 21, 2014
Zarko, thank you for generously sharing your time, for the thoughtful advice you gave and for infusing our time at General Magic with fun. Your winning attitude was infectious. I wish your family the best.
March 20, 2014
March 20, 2014
I just learned about Zarko's passing, and like so many others, am stunned and saddened. I didn't know Zarko well, but really enjoyed working with him on the water during the lead up to AC34. He was cheerful, smart, athletic, knowledgeable, and just plain fun. My friends who knew Zarko well always had glowing words to say about him. What a loss. Nellie, I don't know if there are any words or actions any of us could express that could help you and the boys heal, but you are clearly surrounded by a community who is grieving with you, and who would do anything for you.
March 19, 2014
March 19, 2014
I worked with Zarko in General Magic a very long time ago now. An inspirational person in many ways. I was stunned to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
March 19, 2014
March 19, 2014
I've just been told about Zarko's passing. My family and I are very sad, as we have very good memories of his staying here at our home with Nellie. Personally, I am very proud of having sailed with him Centomiglia and other races here on Lake Garda. We will miss you Zarko.
March 19, 2014
March 19, 2014
Many years ago, without meaning to or even knowing, Zarko influenced me in a way that I appreciate more each year. He showed me, through the the way treated the people around him - his care, consideration, dignity, and compassion with everyone - the kind of person that I wanted to be. Today, I am even more grateful to him for the direction in which he moved me with his integrity, honesty, and his strength of character.
March 19, 2014
March 19, 2014
Dear Nellie, Sam, and Vivi: Our hearts ache for your loss. We didn't know Zarko well, but certainly were grateful to know him at all. The tributes left here are a lovely and moving testimony to a man who touched many lives and left us all better for having known him.
March 19, 2014
March 19, 2014
Words cannot express the depth of my sorrow. The world has lost a wonderful human being - I loved Zarko like a brother. From way back in highschool, Zarko lived with us in Brockville on Meighen Cres. and became a part of our family. We feel blessed to have been able to spend so many fun years together. I remember your honor roll days - competing with Andrew Ku for the top %, TISS football days, science fair fame, you sailing the 1000 Islands, your years at the BYC, your jokes and your forever inquisitive mind! I remember your 1st car - you & Dad had matching VW Rabbit diesels! And then the Brand new Toyota Celica! You were so proud! :) Through University days and your time in Ottawa at BNR...the Ivory Coast trip for Patricia's wedding, and cottage days on Bass Lake. Then off to Cali you went...your dream - to the Silicon Valley, the success you had at such a young age. You were an inspiration to everyone you met. I still can't comprehend that you are gone. You will forever live in our hearts Zark! My heart goes out to your beautiful wife, your sweet little daughter, Sam, your parents, Robin, Nina and all of your friends (Hank you are in my prayers) and all of your extended family around the world. So many happy memories! Rest in Peace Zarko.
March 18, 2014
March 18, 2014
Zarko, I will forever remember your smile, your kind heart, generosity of spirit, optimism and fierce intelligence. You were a seminal figure in our General Magic days and your passing leaves a great void.
March 16, 2014
March 16, 2014
Words cannot express how sad we are to learn that the wondrous Zarko no longer roams this earth. He was such an amazing person - so smart, clever, curious, and passionate about life, sailing and his family. He was always a joy to talk to and ready for adventure in any form.
We first met Zarko when we were neighbours in Italy and our sons attended school together. We cherish the friendships we developed individually and as families.
Some of our fondest memories are of our times together. We will always remember -
- having lunch and movie dates with Nellie & Zarko in the San Francesco di Paola compound.
- watching Sam & Penn take their first tennis lessons together, knowing that someday they’d grow into their bodies and become good players (and they did).
- our Valentine Dinners where everything we ate and drank was red.
- the Thanksgiving feast prepared in two kitchens and almost derailed by martini-drinking cooks.
- art history classes in Florence, Rome, Ravenna and elsewhere, when David & Zarko would occasionally sneak off for caffe correttos to combat the cold weather.
- how Zarko almost missed Vivian’s birth because the Italian hospital made him rush home to get the ‘proper’ papers.
- his joy the next morning when he came to collect Sam and told him he was now a big brother.
- how he embraced parenting with such joy and passion.
- whale watching off San Juan Island, wandering around the Belvedere harbor, the gathering at Cavallo Point, spending time together in our homes away from Italy.
- enjoying good food, wine, scotch and cigars.
- talking about everything and anything long into the night.
Our love goes out to Nellie, Sam, Vivi and all the family, sending you healing thoughts at this very sad time.
“To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.” - Thomas Campbell
With love,
Alison, David, Walker & Penn
We first met Zarko when we were neighbours in Italy and our sons attended school together. We cherish the friendships we developed individually and as families.
Some of our fondest memories are of our times together. We will always remember -
- having lunch and movie dates with Nellie & Zarko in the San Francesco di Paola compound.
- watching Sam & Penn take their first tennis lessons together, knowing that someday they’d grow into their bodies and become good players (and they did).
- our Valentine Dinners where everything we ate and drank was red.
- the Thanksgiving feast prepared in two kitchens and almost derailed by martini-drinking cooks.
- art history classes in Florence, Rome, Ravenna and elsewhere, when David & Zarko would occasionally sneak off for caffe correttos to combat the cold weather.
- how Zarko almost missed Vivian’s birth because the Italian hospital made him rush home to get the ‘proper’ papers.
- his joy the next morning when he came to collect Sam and told him he was now a big brother.
- how he embraced parenting with such joy and passion.
- whale watching off San Juan Island, wandering around the Belvedere harbor, the gathering at Cavallo Point, spending time together in our homes away from Italy.
- enjoying good food, wine, scotch and cigars.
- talking about everything and anything long into the night.
Our love goes out to Nellie, Sam, Vivi and all the family, sending you healing thoughts at this very sad time.
“To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.” - Thomas Campbell
With love,
Alison, David, Walker & Penn
March 14, 2014
March 14, 2014
I will miss your kind greeting as you climbed up the lane at the end of a sailing day. Always inspiring. Peace be with you.
March 13, 2014
March 13, 2014
Zarko, your light shines so brightly at Marin Montessori where, no matter who I speak to, all have been touched by your willingness to share your remarkable gifts of mind and spirit. Your generosity has significantly changed the experience for all of the children now and in the years to come. My connection to you while on the board was brief but powerful and I will always treasure that time. Nellie, Sam and Vivi, my love and prayers are with you.
March 13, 2014
March 13, 2014
I think the first time I saw your website it had a tag line on top “I’m not in right now – please leave a message after the beep,” which to me perfectly captured your dry sense of humor.
You had the most unspoiled curiosity in things of anyone I have ever known.
You inspired me to sail.
You were always so incredibly generous.
I cannot fathom you’re gone. My heart breaks for Nellie and the rest of your family.
You had the most unspoiled curiosity in things of anyone I have ever known.
You inspired me to sail.
You were always so incredibly generous.
I cannot fathom you’re gone. My heart breaks for Nellie and the rest of your family.
March 13, 2014
March 13, 2014
Dear Zarko. I could not believe it when I heard. I will always remember you young, full of energy and plans, your drive that led us (Altocom) to our great success. I will never forget.
March 13, 2014
March 13, 2014
Zarko, I cannot believe you are gone. I do not know why this happened but I do know that death is a transition and that you are now in a serene, loving place. I have never met a kinder, friendlier man than you. I bought your first Melges 24 (USA 330) when you bought a new boat and you gave me so many pointers and such good advice. You were a pleasure to know and to race against. I will never forget seeing your happy expression when you raced with Don Jesberg in the Ditch Run and blew past all of us. Fair winds, my friend. We will meet again. I hope there is sailing in heaven.
March 12, 2014
March 12, 2014
Z, I'm so sad. I loved our times together. You would often give me a conspiratorial smile to let me know you knew how lucky we were to be having such joyous experiences. You combined such almost childlike excitement with so much intelligence and curiosity. Damnit Sharko, who the hell is going to fix my cappuccino machine now? Be at peace my friend.
March 12, 2014
March 12, 2014
Zarko, we will never forget your kindness and generosity as you and Nellie welcomed us to the Bay area and to the MMS community a few years ago. We still have a photo of Aidan, age 10, that you secretly sent us when he took his first MMS trip to the middle of Mexico after being here only a few months. You wanted us to know that everything was fine and he was having a great time on his first big trip away from home. We are reminded of you whenever we see our Nest thermostats...you were always at the edge of technology and Rod enjoyed having a tech buddy in the neighborhood. You were so helpful and kind to everyone around you. Our thoughts and prayers are with Nellie, Sam and Vivi. We will miss you!
March 12, 2014
March 12, 2014
I can't count how many times a complete stranger would learn that I was at General Magic or AltoCom and their first question would be, "do you know Zarko?" He was, in a word, memorable. And it's clear by reading all of the comments left by his many friends, that he will stay that way. There are simply too many touching, hysterical, inspiring stories about Z for any of us to ever forget him. Goodbye my friend.
March 12, 2014
March 12, 2014
Everyone dies but not everyone lives....
Our hearts go out to Zarko, Nellie, their children and family
Your neighbors below on Bella Vista
Our hearts go out to Zarko, Nellie, their children and family
Your neighbors below on Bella Vista
March 12, 2014
March 12, 2014
I am very sad to learn about the loss of this great sailor. I originally met Zarko back in 1999, and raced with him in several regattas on his Melges 24, Cavallino on San Francisco Bay. I remember one particularly windy race, when we "shrimped" the spinnaker, and got passed by lots of boats at the leeward mark. Zarko managed to stay level-headed as we retrieved the spinnaker from the choppy Bay waters and from under the boat. (Most skippers would have been screaming at us, but not Zarko; he was patient and calm.) I really respected his ability to remain calm in spite of the tough and humiliating situation. Over the years, that experience with Zarko has inspired me to do the same. For the past several seasons, we raced against each other in the Etchells class. He always maintained the utmost Corinthian spirit on the race course, and was the most cordial and intelligent guy to hang out with at the yacht club. I admired him for his brilliant, inquisitive mind, competitive spirit, and all of his amazing accomplishments in life! I was looking forward to seeing him on the Bay for many years to come. Far too young to go at only 47!
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Zarko.....so many amazing fun memories with you. I remember 1st meeting you with Alix at the drive in movie with the big screen where we BBQed and from there fun dinner parties in Palo Alto where you always had the coolest gadgets including your Italian coffee machines and Vespa. Then meeting at the Saint Francis Yacht club and sailing your boat up to tinsely island with Ali Rowe for the weekend to snow skiing in Whistler. To sailing your Farr 40 to Cuba. What a trip that was.......thank you for the great memories!
You were always so kind and generous sharing all that you had in life....time, wisdom, intelligence, money and most of all a loving heart.....thank you for you being you!
I remember you meeting Nellie and you falling in love with her and Sam. I was so happy for you as you married a fabulous woman. To seeing yall get married and eating the "Nellie" spinach salad at your wedding dinner. Thank you.
Time went on and did not see you often even thought you would always pop into my mind. I am thankful for our friendship and so sad and sorry that your are gone and truly sorry that you were in so much pain.
You will always be in my heart and made this world a better place for so many.
You were always so kind and generous sharing all that you had in life....time, wisdom, intelligence, money and most of all a loving heart.....thank you for you being you!
I remember you meeting Nellie and you falling in love with her and Sam. I was so happy for you as you married a fabulous woman. To seeing yall get married and eating the "Nellie" spinach salad at your wedding dinner. Thank you.
Time went on and did not see you often even thought you would always pop into my mind. I am thankful for our friendship and so sad and sorry that your are gone and truly sorry that you were in so much pain.
You will always be in my heart and made this world a better place for so many.
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Zarko - friend & mentor. The great times, guidance and generosity that you showed to a young Canadian entrepreneur I will always be grateful for. My first & very eventful 4th of July on the bay will never be forgotten. I am in the middle of your Metaphysics book that you gave me and I was looking forward to our sail and hearing your thoughts. May you rest in peace.
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Zarko was one of the most talented, enthusiastic and generous people I've ever had the good fortune to meet. My deepest condolences to his family.
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Always there with a smile, a " How you doing" and a slap on the shoulder. Much too soon Zarko...much too soon. You'll be missed by every one of us who knew you and those who didn't truly missed out.
Fair winds my friend.
Fair winds my friend.
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Zarko your encouragement, enthusiasm and positive energy helped me through tough times and I can truly say my life is much better for having know you.
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Zarko is an inventor, a problem solver, a builder. He has a sharp mind, a good soul, and adventurous spirit. This world needs more people like him. It’s tragic that he was taken too soon. But we are fortunate to have known him and worked with him, even for a short while. Wishing you calm seas and a steady breeze, Z.
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Happy Times with Zarko:
- Doing a 2 hour return drive with Zarko to see some beautiful gardens in Italy when no-one else wanted to go. Getting to know him, hearing a lot about magical Nellie, realising that he and Nellie are very much like my parents, he – family man, dislikes large groups, parsimonious, practical and ordered, a few very dear friends, a sailor and skier – his world is made brighter by her – vivacious, beautiful, adored by many, family woman, party girl, social, funny, pretty wild too!
- Trying to get Zarko on the dance floor at the MMS auction, it was hard work, but a small boyish grin as his hot wife in cowboy boots takes over from me
- Zarko behind his bar at a party, dishing out very posh whisky and very cuban cigars, amazing sailing pictures all around
- Going out in the boat with Zarko and Nellie, sailing very fast at a very steep angle, coming up against the bridge with currents flying (fortunately I am not a nervous type on a boat, but still clinging on quite carefully). On the way back with the wind behind us all is calm….a pod of bay dolphins (who have not been seen in the Bay for many a year) circle us joyous jumping in the sparkling waves. We all four smile.
- Zarko renovating his own media room (who on earth among our husbands could do that I ask you)
- Zarko not wearing a seatbelt….but the prius doesn’t beep as he rewired it.
- In Sun Valley Zarko shows his skills in winter sport, first taking Liv and Sam off under the trees for some off piste, Olivia declares is “fun and crazy”, Z is elegant in a retro ski suit if I recall, he skis like an angel, then he whisks off my little girls and his darling Vivi to glide nonchalantly round the ice skiing rink as if he were ready for the Olympics, giving the girls lessons and encouragement for hours while the mothers enjoy time at the bar.
- Doing a 2 hour return drive with Zarko to see some beautiful gardens in Italy when no-one else wanted to go. Getting to know him, hearing a lot about magical Nellie, realising that he and Nellie are very much like my parents, he – family man, dislikes large groups, parsimonious, practical and ordered, a few very dear friends, a sailor and skier – his world is made brighter by her – vivacious, beautiful, adored by many, family woman, party girl, social, funny, pretty wild too!
- Trying to get Zarko on the dance floor at the MMS auction, it was hard work, but a small boyish grin as his hot wife in cowboy boots takes over from me
- Zarko behind his bar at a party, dishing out very posh whisky and very cuban cigars, amazing sailing pictures all around
- Going out in the boat with Zarko and Nellie, sailing very fast at a very steep angle, coming up against the bridge with currents flying (fortunately I am not a nervous type on a boat, but still clinging on quite carefully). On the way back with the wind behind us all is calm….a pod of bay dolphins (who have not been seen in the Bay for many a year) circle us joyous jumping in the sparkling waves. We all four smile.
- Zarko renovating his own media room (who on earth among our husbands could do that I ask you)
- Zarko not wearing a seatbelt….but the prius doesn’t beep as he rewired it.
- In Sun Valley Zarko shows his skills in winter sport, first taking Liv and Sam off under the trees for some off piste, Olivia declares is “fun and crazy”, Z is elegant in a retro ski suit if I recall, he skis like an angel, then he whisks off my little girls and his darling Vivi to glide nonchalantly round the ice skiing rink as if he were ready for the Olympics, giving the girls lessons and encouragement for hours while the mothers enjoy time at the bar.
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
It's been many years since I last talked with Zarko, unfortunately, but he was not one to be forgotten. A modest genius, kind and giving. It was a privilege to have known him, and a lesson to not have known him better ...
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
The most knowledgeable, giving and interesting man I've ever had the pleasure to know. Zarko, you're a man who always said "yes" in helping so many people. I hope you have found peace, wherever it may be.
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Zarko was a legend through Hank's stories before I met him. In person, his kindness was disarming, his intellect inspiring. It was a privilege to have spent time with such a good man. Zarko stories live on, but suddenly with a much heavier heart...
March 11, 2014
March 11, 2014
Dear Zarko,
Having known you for even a little bit has been a gift to me and I'd like you to know that you have been an inspiration to me in so many ways. Adieu.
Having known you for even a little bit has been a gift to me and I'd like you to know that you have been an inspiration to me in so many ways. Adieu.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Like some, Zarko, I never knew you at the peak of your tech career. Judging by your resume, you were a force of brilliance to be reckoned with. Judging by your humility—one would never know the success you had achieved.
Zarko, It is impossible to believe really that you are no longer physically with us. I will remember you as such a gentle man, in your better times with a twinkle in your eye, a kindness in your smile and a truly genuine concern for others and your family. You had an overwhelming curiosity for the world around you wanting and efforting to make the world a better place. And then there was your inner geek—always tinkering with anything electrical or technical. We all enjoyed witnessing the simple pleasure you derived from fixing anything that was broken or figuring out the solution to some problem no one else could solve. I remember how you voluntarily wired our resort in Fiji (when you were supposed to be on vacation), solved some of the technical issues at the Ranch, and helped us even at our home with our Sonos and T.V. system. Zarko, your footprint remains all around us.
These memories and those -- in France with Nellie at Olivia’s chateau, at Zem’s fabulous soirees and trips to Italy, Big Sur, conversations over dinners and watching the America’s Cup are of happier times.
Zarko, you were one of a kind, a truly authentic human being. I am so sorry this world could not hold you longer. The world has lost a great man and we have all lost a great friend. Our heart goes out to you as you transition and to those you loved and the dear ones in your family you left behind. May the memories of better times comfort them in this dark hour. We will miss you!
Zarko, It is impossible to believe really that you are no longer physically with us. I will remember you as such a gentle man, in your better times with a twinkle in your eye, a kindness in your smile and a truly genuine concern for others and your family. You had an overwhelming curiosity for the world around you wanting and efforting to make the world a better place. And then there was your inner geek—always tinkering with anything electrical or technical. We all enjoyed witnessing the simple pleasure you derived from fixing anything that was broken or figuring out the solution to some problem no one else could solve. I remember how you voluntarily wired our resort in Fiji (when you were supposed to be on vacation), solved some of the technical issues at the Ranch, and helped us even at our home with our Sonos and T.V. system. Zarko, your footprint remains all around us.
These memories and those -- in France with Nellie at Olivia’s chateau, at Zem’s fabulous soirees and trips to Italy, Big Sur, conversations over dinners and watching the America’s Cup are of happier times.
Zarko, you were one of a kind, a truly authentic human being. I am so sorry this world could not hold you longer. The world has lost a great man and we have all lost a great friend. Our heart goes out to you as you transition and to those you loved and the dear ones in your family you left behind. May the memories of better times comfort them in this dark hour. We will miss you!
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
You were our new neighbors. We are really sad that now we can't compare tomatoes, how to grow the best olives, and celebrate your vision. Zarko, you had such wonderful enthusiasm. We are so sorry you are gone.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, I got to share your incredible energy and spirit for only 6 years. But in that time we got very close to triumph several times, and very close to failure several others. We could always count on you to throw a life preserver when one of us went overboard. Your intellect, your winning attitude, and your unfailing respect for all of us around you will be impossible to replace. Part of us has gone with you. You will be missed, my friend.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
I am so saddened to hear the news. Zarko will always remind me of a good, kind and gentle man that always looked at the positive light of people and situations. I will always remember how he lived life with so much excitement and I looked forward to hearing about his next adventure. It was a great pleasure to know him and work for him.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Oh, I am so bummed to hear that you are gone. I don't really know what happened, but I just can't believe it. So young. I really enjoyed working with you on the General Magic/Sony V.34 stuff years ago and always thought you were a class act. I'm just speechless. My condolences to your family. RIP Zarko.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
So sorry to hear about the passing of Zarko, we spent the Melges 24 Worlds in Geelong with him recently, he was a top bloke and will be sorely missed, the Australian Melges 24 community offers our sincere condolences to Zarko's family and friends, we are lucky to have known him.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
It's so hard to believe you're gone. You left an indelible mark on our family. My iPhoto somehow jumps to a photo of you teaching Parker to sail. You took such care in teaching the kids the details and physics of sailing. They were mezmerized and found their love for the winds and water that day. And thank you for taking on those damn BBQ's. You supported us in countless ways. You brought such incredible enthusiasm to all you took on, we will miss you. Dear Nellie, Sam and Vivi, my heart aches with you. We are with you all.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
“and I shall watch the ferry boats, and they'll get high, on a bluer ocean against tomorrow's sky. and i will never grow so old again, and i will walk and talk, in gardens all wet with rain...”
― Van Morrison
Words are hardly adequate to express my sorrow dear Nellie and family. May his memory be a blessing....
― Van Morrison
Words are hardly adequate to express my sorrow dear Nellie and family. May his memory be a blessing....
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Here is a man who lived the dash with love
kindness and humility...you will be missed.
______________
The Dash
I read of a man who stood to speak
at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on the tombstone
from the beginning…to the end.
He noted that first came the date of birth
and spoke the following date with tears,
but he said what mattered most of all
was the dash between those years.
For that dash represents all the time
that they spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved them
know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own,
the cars…the house…the cash
What matters is how we live and love
and how we spend our dash.
So, think about this long and hard.
Are there things you’d like to change?
For you never know how much time is left
that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough
to consider what’s true and real
and always try to understand
the way other people feel.
And be less quick to anger
and show appreciation more
and love the people in our lives
like we’ve never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect
and more often wear a smile,
remembering that this special dash
might only last a little while.
So, when your eulogy is being read,
with your life’s actions to rehash…
would you be proud of the things they say
about how you spent YOUR dash?
My heart breaks for Nellie and the kids...
may you all find peace.
kindness and humility...you will be missed.
______________
The Dash
I read of a man who stood to speak
at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on the tombstone
from the beginning…to the end.
He noted that first came the date of birth
and spoke the following date with tears,
but he said what mattered most of all
was the dash between those years.
For that dash represents all the time
that they spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved them
know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own,
the cars…the house…the cash
What matters is how we live and love
and how we spend our dash.
So, think about this long and hard.
Are there things you’d like to change?
For you never know how much time is left
that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough
to consider what’s true and real
and always try to understand
the way other people feel.
And be less quick to anger
and show appreciation more
and love the people in our lives
like we’ve never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect
and more often wear a smile,
remembering that this special dash
might only last a little while.
So, when your eulogy is being read,
with your life’s actions to rehash…
would you be proud of the things they say
about how you spent YOUR dash?
My heart breaks for Nellie and the kids...
may you all find peace.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko,
I always admired how you melded your engineering talents with your passion for the environment. When we spent time together, I felt connected. You have been and will continue to be an inspiration to me. I am grateful to have had you in my life. I will miss you, my friend.
I always admired how you melded your engineering talents with your passion for the environment. When we spent time together, I felt connected. You have been and will continue to be an inspiration to me. I am grateful to have had you in my life. I will miss you, my friend.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, thanks for your generosity of time, spirit, and your network of macs so we didn't have to wait in line at the common lab. And you even offered support in the middle of the night! It was a long time ago when we were in SD90 together but I always hold you fondly in my memories. Dear friend, may your soul rest in eternal peace!
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
A beautiful man, a beautiful wife, a beautiful family, a beautiful life. Each moment savored and delicious; entirely too brief. Our hearts ache. Tom and Deb
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, my dear friend, you gave us all so much. I thought we had all the time in the world to give some back. You will be missed and never forgotten.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko had to be close to the perfect man. Smart, fun, compassionate and generous. He had a great life and family. Being Zarko had to be fun. Being his friend was a gift. Thanks Zarko! RIP.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, you were always one of the most brilliant, accomplished, kind, generous, fun, and humble people I've ever known. I wish we had had more time with you. My thoughts, prayers, and love are with Nellie, Sam, and Vivi.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
March 6
March 6
Thoughts of Z early this morning driving my daughter to school, even before I realized what today is the anniversary of — I remarked to her how Z was mourned and is missed by so many and who knew him in so many different ways. It still makes no sense to me that the world no longer has Z’s shining smile, his childlike sense of wonder, his enthusiasm, friendliness, generosity, and good cheer. He was, in so many ways, brilliant and extraordinary.
March 6
March 6
Ten years later. Still feeling the loss. The world is not quite as wonderful without you Z!
March 6
March 6
Dear Zarko, love to your spirit, and love to Nellie, Vivvie and Sam on this day.
Gallery
Along with the pic, this was his grade grade 12 year Hall of Achievement Doc....
1984 Pic from our school TISS in Brockville. This is always how I remember Zarko!
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Recent stories
McKeeby Lodge computer camp, circa 1984
June 26, 2015
Zark0 again.
My brother Matthew is the guy in the green shirt goofing for the camera in the front row.
McKeeby Lodge computer camp, circa 1984
June 26, 2015
Zark0 mugging in the back row. As usual.
Zark0 was a counsellor here for a couple of years. I had him as my cabin counsellor in McKeeby's very first year. And although he was only a couple of years older than me, I still thought he was a pretty cool dude.
I remember one time when Zark0 had gone home during the break between weeks, he came back with his motorcycle, and gave me a ride on the back. (My first and last time, I think.)
He did have a very infectious energy, and I have fond memories of him.
I was pleased when I read in 2000 that he had such success in Silicon Valley, and had made the big score, cashing in when he sold his company. And it looks like he had a lot of fun times traveling, sailing, driving hot cars and spending time with his family and friends.
Still, I guess depression can get the best of us, and maybe, like the late Robin Williams, the most enthusiastic and energetic folks may be the ones for whom the black dogs of depression are the hardest to shake off.
My condolences go to Zark0's family and friends.
Remembering
March 25, 2014
Back in high school (TISS), some 30 years ago I had a friend and his name was Zarko. A tall, thin boy with a huge smile and a kind way about him. So full of life and energetic. He was smart, ambitious, and curious as I remember and a friend to many. His lab notes in chemistry class helped me on more than one occasion!
Our time in high school came to an end and we went our separate ways out into the world. Over the years when I've thought of those high school days, I'd remember Zarko with fondness and memories that brought a smile to my face.
In reading all of these beautiful tributes here it's plain to see that in his all-too-short-life he touched many people with those very same qualities that I remember.
I have been so saddened to hear of his passing. To his family and friends, my deepest sympathies for your terrible loss. Zarko, rest in peace. Kathy Uniacke (Edgley)