ForeverMissed
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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.

March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, your wry smile, grounded wisdom, and wonderfully childlike enthusiasm for innovation touched us all. And so many of us felt in your presence a warm, loving glow. We are sad. May you glow on. Our love to Sam, Vivi and Nellie.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Like a castle built upon a sandy beach, gone too soon!

I'll hold my memories close of a very special man.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, you were like no other person I have ever known. You weren't the jack of all trades, but rather the expert at all. From technology to coffee to education and the environment, food, wine and travel and beyond--your knowledge and rivers ran deep. And what a smile! Your smile lives on in ViVi as I see you in her always. I feel unbelievably lucky to have had my life touched by you. Nellie, Sam and ViVi we are here for you in whatever way you want. Sending all my love and peace to you all.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
On behalf of the Royal Canadian Yacht and personally, I extend our deepest sympathy on Zarko's passing.
Zarko was much admired and loved by us as an outstanding competitive sailor and true friend. He was a most instrumental supporter of our Club's Canada's Cup legacy by competing in Canada Cup Race championships in 2001 along with Hank Lammens.

For those who are not aware, the Canada's Cup is symbolic of Grand Prix racing supremacy on the Great Lakes.

He was made an honourary member of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club and was most deserving in this honour.. His presence at our Club was a most wonderful one for all those who met and competed with him.

May the fair winds of heaven be with him always .

With Deep Sincerity,

Commodore David Matheson,
Royal Canadian Yacht Club
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, our paths only crossed briefly but I wish I'd had a chance to get to know you better. You were always such a pleasure to be around. My condolences to all of your loved ones.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, I wondered why I had met you. I soon came to realize that you were a gift I received…you were a bright light in my life at a time when I needed to find my way. I too fell under your spell because you are so unique, genuine and pure. We all have our own memories of you and how you make us feel special. I love you Zarko.
Nellie, all that makes Zarko so precious lives on in you and your family.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
You were an inspiring man, sailor and friend to so many. I remember the kindness/coaching/fun you shared and the leadership you demonstrated during a Cavallino Farr 40 regatta in Miami. RIP and condolences to all those close to you.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Thoughtful news piece about Zarko on this sailing website:

www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2014/03/10/eight-bells-zarko-draganic/
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Dearest Zarko and family. There was no friendler face, no more positive outlook. This is the saddest and should not happen to a person so liked by so many. So sorry for the pain in your life, you were loved and respecteed by so many.
March 10, 2014
March 10, 2014
Zarko, I am so sad to hear of your passing. Your creativity and kindness I will never forget. My heart breaks for Nellie and your children. I will not let the sadness linger as I will think of the wonderful person that you were and the positive energy that you brought to this world.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Dear Zarko, I am totally saddened about your passing. In more than dozen times we were together--started at my Paris Chateau Villette trip for James' 40th birthday and you fixed the chateau's WiFi to all guests' delight, our trip to Italy and Fiji, various events/parties at the Yacht Club, Cavollo Point Lodge and your effort to help me sell the Showcase home in Belvedere last Summer... You were the most kind, sincere, helpful person, you always looked happy, caring and passionate about your family, projects and friends. All friends love you, I am wondering if there was anything we could have done to prevent your passing. How sad to lose such a talented and wonderful person! There is no better demonstration that God takes best people prematurely because God needs better company with him in Heaven. Zarko, I know you are in Heaven helping and caring for others. We all miss you here on earth! Dear Nellie, please let me know if there is anything I can do for you, I live in Belvedere full time now and only 5 minutes away from you. I have dozen photos of you and Zarko during the trips in Paris and Italy. I will put together an album for your memory. Much Love, Olivia
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
To spend time with Z was to have memories with him. I have so many that I cherish. Several stories I tell because they glowed with love and appreciation for being alive. I'm heartbroken for you my friend. I wish you peace.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, I am so lucky to have known you. I always saw you bathed in a beautiful light of genius, wit, charm, enthusiasm. I will never forget you.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
So very sad to hear about Zarko’s passing. I have known him since Waterloo and although we were never in close contact, I would always enjoy seeing him over the years at some of the big events in our friend’s lives. He always had a friendly and kind greeting for me along with a very warm smile and a nice chat.

One unique memory I have of Zarko was his fondness for Canada which I discovered when in 1995 when I had not been in contact in a few years and he called me in Vancouver because he couldn’t get enough real time information about Quebec’s separation referendum. I distinctly remember how he was so happy to hear that Canada would stay together.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, someone we all looked up to, like the 007 of the tech world. You were always there with kind words and encouragement. Even while you were sailing and jet setting around the world, you were still easygoing, approachable, and without any sharp edges. We’ll miss you.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Zarko's passing. Though it has been many years since we'd seen one another, I would think of him from time to time as I heard of this exploits from our mutual friends; and feel honored to have been a part of his life years ago as we were all entering the world after Waterloo.

Mostly I remember the accomplished young man, so full of potential, who had already achieved so much while the rest of us were just beginning our journey. I remember a gentle, forgiving soul, and fun travel companion.

Zarko, the world will be a dimmer and less interesting place in your absence. You will be sorely missed.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, I remember meeting you while racing against each other in the Farr 40 fleet where you and your "Cavallino" team had more fun than anyone. We became good friends during our rocket ride through the south of France into Italy in "the bella machina", then enjoyed many more adventures in various boats and cars throughout the years. We always loved talking cars, boats and tech and I always learned something new and interesting from you. 

I can just imagine you now blasting down the Autostrada (in your EV) towards a beautiful Italian harbor to meet some magnificent yacht filled with your devoted friends and your myriad fans. Zarko, you touched so many lives in so many fascinating ways and we will miss our adventures with you.  Goodbye, my friend.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko you will be missed by many because you touched so many in a genuine, kind and giving way. You were instrumental in helping Marin Montessori and its community in numerous ways. The energy efficiency, the solar panels, computers in the classrooms, filming class plays and the build out of the junior high. Thank you! I enjoyed our time together on the MMS board and valued your insight and wisdom, as well as love of the Montessori pedagogy. I am honored and blessed to have known you.

Nellie, Vivi and Sam - The Bardwicks are sending you love and strength. There are many here to support you.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, you had such a kind heart and the courage to take on anything. Whether digging into the technical complexity of a software modem, or the fun of a Vespa scooter business, you lived a life of fullness, depth and above all kindness. You will be missed.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Got to know Zarko thru the SFYC and the yachting community. Was with him in San Diego for the Etchell 22 Worlds in 2011 as well as on the San Francisco Bay in 2013 for the Melges Worlds. Also spent time skiing with him in Lake Tahoe during several ABASH adventures. My most recent memory was on the AC Race Course as he was doing Marshall Work and I was doing photography aboard a Beneteau. His energy, kindness and enthusiasm will be forever with me as I found him to be a delightful friend. I miss him already and wish for the wind to always be at his back and the sunshine on his face! Capt. Ron Steinau
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
I also remembered helping Zarko make the decision of whether or not he should allow People Magazine to come take his photo for a feature they were doing on America's most eligible bachelors. We ended up thinking it would bring the wrong type of women into his life - gold diggers. Nellie was always the one for him, he just needed to wait a bit longer for such an amazing and perfect woman to appear. My heart aches for you Nellie, and for Sam and Vivi.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
I am thunderstruck! I can't believe he's gone.

Zarko was the Canadian Yugoslav American wannabe kid who would come to my cube at Apple and say "Pizza?" all the time as an intern. He made a HUGE impression on me. He was a brilliant, happy, wonderful young man, and I have thought of him many times over the decades since I last saw him.

The world - and I - will miss you sorely, Zarko.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
I started sailing in SoCal, but Zarko's the one who reignited the passion after I moved up to SF (first, on some semi-sketchy chartered boats; later on his J/105 La Pavoni where we learned that sometimes you just can't sail against the current in Raccoon Strait, no matter how much optimism you put in to it).

Thanks for the gift, Z, you'll be missed.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, I remember when we first met and what a huge impression you made. You were so positive and full of huge imaginative ideas. I will never forget sitting on the floor and having our long talks about life. You will be greatly missed. My love goes out to your family.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Crushing. 

It's been too long since I last got together with Zarko - a huge mistake, in hindsight - but I think about him on a surprisingly frequent basis. I've never met anyone else like him, with that energy, curiosity, dedication, raw, innovative capability, and ability to come out with something brilliant while beaming behind that massive, almost goofy smile. I'll never see him again, but he continues to inspire me. 

At Waterloo, the classic story was how he adjusted an oscilloscope to trace an infinity symbol, much to the surprise and amazement of the lab instructor and other students. I'll also never forget him standing at General Magic with a fistful of gear and wires, rattling off a stream of great ideas that would take years and a couple of generations of mobile to come to fruition. Just an amazing guy. 

We and the world are poorer with Zarko gone, but richer for him having crossed our paths.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zed,
I will never forget your unbridled enthusiasm, unique insights, and the endless kindness you brought to General Magic and the world. I will cherish the memories forever. Sail on my friend.
Glenwood
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
I have such fond memories of Zarko from General Magic. He was kind, generous, brilliant, and playful. He had an infectious enthusiasm and made us all want to be more like him. The antics stemming from Zarko and Andy’s cube made work endlessly fun. He will be remembered and missed by the many he touched. My thoughts and sympathies are with his family.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
I remember when we created the first "General Magic Hero" award for Zarko because he kept doing amazing things day after day in the early days at Latham. Like the other wonderkids--Tony, Megan, Amy, Steve and their fellows--no one had ever told him something couldn't be done, so he just did it. One of the working name for the device was the "Zarkolator"...His generosity of spirit survives.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
I have never known a better person. Zarko once told me that he held onto his earliest memories, growing up in the Socialist Republic of Croatia, and the suffering that he endured. Knowing what starvation felt like as a toddler drove him toward "the land of opportunity" - Canada, and then "the valley." He knew at an early age what he wanted for himself and wanted to offer others - a better way of life defined by opportunity, innovation, and efficiency. However, his work habits never indicated perfectionism, only real passion for creating more efficient tools to serve humanity; not perfect tools for an imperfect humanity. In that way he remained "free" and "innocent" in spirit. The Marin Montessori School community is forever indebted to his work and service. He was extremely generous of his time, work ethic, and brilliance. He also modeled genuine humility. The teens enrolled at the school and the faculty who work there are better served as a result of his work, and his legacy is absolute and inestimable. I am so saddened by his passing and my time with him was too short. I will miss him forever and am so thankful to have known him. (What an understatement). He was a dear, dear friend and I am a better man for having known and worked alongside Zarko. My heart is with Nellie, Sam, and Vivi. Sam, please don't hesitate to reach out for support - From the Wirts family to yours..we love you. RBW
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, you leave us with a gaping hole to fill, that made of the kindness we lost in the wake of your departure.

Zarko, whenever we met, we had a good geek-out and a laugh. Your spirit will live on in your children and your family and ones you have touched."
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
I started at General Magic as a lowly summer intern, only more lowly as I was the only MBA at the time--not exactly welcome in a company ruled by techies. But you greeted me with a genuine warmth and made me feel welcome. Even when you were pressed by deadlines, you were ever so patient in putting up with my endless questions and explained things with such clarity and simpleness. I have not seen you for many years, Zarko, but I have always remembered your kindness.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, Nellie, Sam and Vivi were remarkably good friends, given how little time we actually had with them since first meeting them while both families were living temporarily in Italy.

Back in Belvedere, we saw them from time to time and I rowed and sailed with Zarko, learning something new and important each time. When he went to Cloud Car, I lost my newest pal and did not row as much. I will never row past Angel or out to Fort Point without thinking of him and his steadiness in good water and bad. I wish I could have persuaded him to do the long row in Venice this year.

All our love to Nellie, Vivi and Sam at this terrible time.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, I am so sad to see you go. I will never forget my very first weeks in California while staying in your guest house and your generosity in helping another wayward Canuck find his way in a new place, and I can't forget how your enthusiasm was infectious for everyone around you. It was an honor to have known you.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarco, You will be so missed. Your appreciation of the small moments of life-- of how beautiful and precious-- rubbed off on me. You would stop us regularly during whatever we were doing in Aspen --- skiing, talking around the table, cooking and eating, playing poker, drinking great wine --- and remind us to take note and savor the moment and the privilege of being with friends. The boys' weekends will never be the same. Rest easy. My thoughts are with you and your family.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko and family, It really hurts us to have someone with so many
people who loved you leave the earth so early. There are so many
beautiful tributes. Godspeed to a terrific person.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
"The flame that burns twice as bright, burns half as long." -Laozi, Tao Te Ching. 

The sun is dimmer today now that you are gone.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
It's hard to for me to think of Zarko without thinking of Nellie and all the joyful times we spent together celebrating birthdays, weddings, and life events. But I'll always remember his big laugh, smiling eyes, and razor sharp mind. This is a poem called The Little Ship which was read by Maria Shriver at Tim Russert's funeral and I thought of our friend, the eternal sailor:

"I stood watching as the little ship sailed out to
sea. The setting sun tinted its white sails with a golden light.
And as it disappeared from view, a voice at my side whispered, He is
gone. But the sea was a narrow one, and on the furthest shore, a
little band of friends had gathered to watch in happy expectation.
Suddenly, they caught sight of the tiny sail. And at the very moment
when my companion had whispered, He is gone, a glad shout went up in joyous welcome with the words, yes, here he comes!"
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Wherever you are I hope that there is free food there - student heaven.
March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Zarko, you were a huge inspiration to me as I started by career in 1995. You and your team just astounded me, with so much talent and such a passion for technology. I started at 20 years old and I was clueless, but you were always kind to me and happy to show me the latest cool thing you were working on.

I wish I could tell you how much of an impact you had on my life. You helped set the trajectory for my career, for which I'm ever thankful. Thank you most of all for being nice to the kid that always wanted to bug you and see what you were building next.
March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
Words cannot express the sadness I feel over Zarko’s passing. I cherish the years I spent with him and wish there were many more to come. Zarko was an inspiration to me: a loving husband and father, a brilliant engineer, a fierce sailor, and an amazing friend. Zarko, I miss you already.
March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
Zed, cube-mate, mentor, long-time friend. You taught me how to be good at so many things. Even now that you are gone I will continue to look to you for guidance and teaching. One day I hope to give back a fraction of what you gave us.
March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
Zarko I will forever remember our great adventures, from kite lines that got wrapped around the prop of your boat to riding up Haleakala to our late night chats. You have such an amazing range of talents and are so giving, you brought incredible spirit and insight to everything you touched. Thank you for the great memories, you are forever an inspiration.
March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
Zarko, my university roommate, round-the-world travel partner, best friend and brother,

With your gifted tools of the mind, heart and soul, you have selflessly coached and helped solve so many problems for your friends and loved ones.

With your creativity and hard work ethic, you have been an inspiration to so many of your peers and disciples.

You have always been there for me and I will continue to be there for you as you live in the spirit of your family and loved ones.

Thank you for all your confidence and friendship. You will always be my inspiration and hero,

John Cheuck
aka Johnny Chan
March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
Zarko. Oh, sweet Zarko. Everything you did, so interesting, so full of life. Such a sailor an inventor, a tinkerer. It is hard to believe you aren't here--won't be here with us. I wish we could have helped you. I will remember you for your passion and kindness. Rest in peace.
March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
RIP my Sigma Chi brother, roommate, friends for ever.

Thinking of you and remembering great times we all had together!

Recalling your creativity and hard work surrounded by all us mates Johnny & Michael, et al. You have been an inspiration, a true innovator and maven to me since I met you.

Thank you for all your friendship/time and the gift of your mind and good will.

In hoc signo vinces
March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
Zarko, I can never forget you and your friendship. Our first partnership was writing code. Your being only slightly more obsessive about getting things just right made me (and Phil) more comfortable with our own obsession. When we sailed together, you taught me what to look for, inside the boat and out. When we walked Belvedere, endlessly lapping the island while we talked of many things, I quietly learned how deep and broad was your knowledge and wisdom. Our ability to talk about anything and nothing often provided me solace and courage, I hope it did for you as well.

Your lightning-fast generosity and childlike wonder at so many things was inspirational. Espresso makers, network protocols, foreign cities, classic films, the list is endless.

Forever in your debt, I'll not forget any of it.
March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
I am going to miss the smile when he was excited and what a caring person he was to everyone. There are no word to express the sadness for the loss.
Page 4 of 5

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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.
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)

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