Edward Zadrzynski

In Loving Memory of Edward “Uncle Eddie” Zadrzynski

January 6, 1959 – November 1, 2026

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Eddie was a proud graduate of Cass Tech and the University of Michigan. His career took him to Chicago, but his heart eventually brought him back home to care for his mother. A decision that reflected the way he lived his entire life, always putting the people he loved first.

Eddie was an avid Detroit sports fan; he had a special place in his heart for the Detroit Tigers and attended countless games with his loved ones. He enjoyed a good card game, placing a sports bet, traveling, and reading on his Kindle.

And no day was complete without winding down with his New York Times puzzles before bed.

Uncle Eddie was the kind of person who would answer your call at any hour and be there when you needed him. But he wouldn’t come without asking questions. He would ask plenty, wanting to understand every way he could help and giving suggestions. And even on his way, he would be thinking of something else he could do for you. That was Uncle Eddie, always thinking one step ahead and always showing up for the people he loved.

Eddie was always early. Whether it was a family gathering, a special occasion, or an ordinary afternoon together, he arrived with plenty of time to make sure everything was taken care of. And, of course, he was rarely without his trusty Bubba Keg. Though he had a habit of leaving one behind, there was never reason to worry. Eddie always had a spare, in seemingly every size, ready for any occasion.

He was a storyteller, a lifelong learner, and someone whose curiosity about the world was matched only by his curiosity about the people in it. If you shared a hobby or interest with Eddie, you could count on him going home, researching it himself, and coming back with new questions and stories the next time you were together. He didn’t just listen to what mattered to you. He made an effort to understand it.

He was even the kind of man who would learn an entirely new language simply to better communicate with someone important to the people he loved.

Distance was never an obstacle when it came to showing up for family. Eddie traveled across the country and around the world to celebrate milestones, attend important events, and stand beside the people he cared about. Whether it was his niece’s wedding or another special moment in a loved one’s life, he made the effort to be there. His presence was never something anyone had to question.

Perhaps Eddie’s greatest gift was the sense of peace he brought to those around him. There was something deeply reassuring about knowing he was there. He was steady, dependable, thoughtful, and endlessly prepared. With Eddie by your side, you knew you were safe. He would figure things out, make a plan, and lead the way.

He gave his time generously, loved through his actions, and made the people around him feel that their lives and interests were worth knowing. His love was found in the little things. An answered phone call, an extra question, a long drive, a story told or a problem solved.

Eddie is now reunited with his beloved mother Theresa, his sister Kim, his brother Brian, his nephew Joseph, and the many cherished pets who went before him. Likely all at a table playing a game of 31. We find comfort in imagining that when our time comes to meet again, he will be there waiting with open arms, a familiar story, and probably some really good snacks.

Until then, we will carry his stories, his kindness, his curiosity, and his unwavering love with us.

And whenever life feels uncertain, we will remember the comfort of having Uncle Eddie there to lead the way.

Forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date.